Haloperidol is a dopamine receptor blocker with a high efficacy rate of 70-80% in treating tic disorders. It was one of the first medications used for this purpose.
Haloperidol's side effects are relatively significant and dose-dependent. Common side effects include drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, constipation, tachycardia, difficulty urinating, and extrapyramidal reactions (such as acute dystonia, akathisia, and Parkinson-like tremors). Rare side effects include tardive dyskinesia, tardive muscle weakness, sedation, increased appetite, school and social phobias, and depressive symptoms. Sedative side effects often accompany irritability, and long-term sedation may affect intelligence.
To avoid or mitigate haloperidol's side effects, follow these principles: start with a low dose and individualize the dosage; maintain a low dose and temporarily increase it if symptoms worsen; use biperiden to counteract its side effects.
Parents should closely observe their child for side effects and their severity while on haloperidol, reporting any concerns to the doctor promptly to adjust the dosage if necessary.