Starting dose of haloperidol

The starting dose of haloperidol varies depending on the condition being treated, the patient's age, and other individual factors. Here are the general guidelines for the starting dose of haloperidol: 1. **Psychosis and Schizophrenia**: For moderate symptoms, the starting dose is 0.5 to 2 mg orally, taken 2 to 3 times a day. For severe symptoms, the starting dose is 3 to 5 mg orally, taken 2 to 3 times a day. The maximum recommended oral dosage should not exceed 100 mg per day. 2. **Acute Agitation**: For managing acute agitation in patients with schizophrenia, a short-acting intramuscular (IM) haloperidol lactate dosage of 2 to 5 mg can be administered every 4 to 8 hours. The maximum recommended dosage for IM haloperidol lactate should not exceed 20 mg per day. 3. **Tourette's Syndrome**: For moderate symptoms, the starting dose is 0.5 to 2 mg, and for severe symptoms, the starting dose is 3 to 5 mg, both taken orally 2 to 3 times a day. 4. **Children**: Haloperidol is not approved for use in children under 3 years of age. For children older than 3 years, the starting dose should be lower and adjusted based on the child's response and weight. It is important to note that the starting dose of haloperidol should be adjusted based on the individual patient's response and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The initial dose should be started at the lower end of the recommended range and gradually increased as needed to achieve optimal symptom control while minimizing side effects.