Heart Rhythm Problems with Haloperidol (Nov. 2007)

A recent FDA alert, along with new labeling, warns health professionals about the possibility of QT prolongation and Torsades de Pointes (TdP) in patients treated with the antipsychotic drug Haldol (haloperidol). The risk appears to be higher when the drug is administered intravenously or in higher doses than recommended. Injectable haloperidol is approved only for intramuscular administration, but it's sometimes used intravenously to treat severe agitation. FDA is advising particular caution if the drug is used in patients who have other QT-prolonging conditions, including electrolyte imbalance. Caution should also be used in patients taking drugs known to prolong the QT interval, and in those who have underlying cardiac abnormalities, hypothyroidism or familial long QT syndrome. FDA also recommends ECG monitoring if haloperidol is given intravenously.