Haloperidol

Brand Name: Haldol

Class of Drug: Typical anti-psychotic

Mode of Action: For people with psychotic illnesses like acute psychosis, schizophrenia, there is an overactive / over-secretion of neurotransmitters in their brain. Thus, depending on which areas of nerves are constantly/ excessively triggered, they may see, hear, smell, feel or taste "excessive" things that others do not experience. Haloperidol blocks the receptors for the neurotransmitter, dopamine. Thus, excessive stimulation of the nerves are prevented, resulting in a decrease in the symptoms experienced by the patient.

Used For: Psychotic disorders, Controlling motor and verbal tics of those with Tourette's disorder

Side Effects: Extra-pyramidal side effects (various motor disturbances including inability to initiate movement, inability to stop movements, jerky and sudden movements etc), dizziness, dry mouth, lethargy, muscle stiffness or cramps, tremors, lactation, increased libido, decreased sexual functioning in males, difficulty urinating etc
Serious Side Effects: Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (muscle cramps, fever, unstable vital signs, tremors, change in cognition), difficulty breathing or swallowing, seizures, neck cramps etc

If you missed a dosage, just take it as soon as when you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, take only 1 dose and ignore the missed dose.

http://www.medicinenet.com/haloperidol/article.htm
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682180.html

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