Serenace

Uses
Serenace (Haloperidol) is a type of dopamine inverse agonist that belongs to a group of drugs referred to as antipsychotics. It is widely used in the treatment of schizophrenia and other mood disorders, to help control aggressive behaviour, hallucinations and agitation. Patients affected by Tourette's syndrome are often treated with this drug, to control verbal and motor tics.

This medicine works by inhibiting various receptors that are present in the brain, such as the dopamine receptor, which results in a decreased level of abnormal brain excitement. Other uses include treating hiccups that are persistent, preventing nausea or vomiting in patients undergoing cancer treatment and treating confusion and thinking problems occurring as a result of severe medical conditions.

Dosage and Administration
Serenace (Haloperidol) comes in the form of 5mg tablets, which are administered orally. Some patients undergoing treatment for mania have been directed by their doctor to start treatment with a dosage that ranges from 0.5mg to 5mg, administered 2 to 3 times per day. Maintenance treatment may require adjustment of the dosage. If taken to prevent nausea, the usual dosage that adult are told to take by their doctor ranges from 1mg to 5mg, taken at 4 to 6 hour intervals. Other conditions may require a different dosage regimen.

Side effects
Treatment of schizophrenia or any other conditions with Serenace (Haloperidol) may cause side effects, such as:

• Restlessness and anxiety
• Decreased libido or sexual ability
• Enlargement of the breasts and milk production
• Movements of the eyes which the patient is unable to control
• Dryness that affects the mouth or an increased amount of saliva

You will need to notify your doctor of any side effects which occur during treatment with this medication. Although rare, serious side effects are also possible. See your doctor immediately if you notice painful or discoloured eyes, cramps in the neck, tremors, oculogyric crisis, neuroleptic malignant syndrome or any other serious symptoms.

Precautions
This medication is not used for treating older adults affected by dementia, as it may increase the risk of serious side effects if used by patients in this category.

If you suddenly stop treatment, this could cause your symptoms to suddenly return, and may also result in withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor may instruct you to gradually reduce the dosage when stopping treatment, so as to prevent this.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Serenace (Haloperidol) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.