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First-Generation Antipsychotics for Treating Schizophrenia
If you have any significant side effects while taking an antipsychotic, call your doctor right away. You may need another type of medicine, or the dose may need to be lowered.
There is some evidence of a link between first-generation antipsychotics (such as haloperidol or thioridazine) and an increase in cardiac arrest (heart stopping) or abnormal heartbeat.1 But it is not yet clear whether the risk is linked with the medicines or with schizophrenia.
If you have trouble taking antipsychotic medicines every day, you may be able to get a shot every 2 to 4 weeks. Talk with your doctor about whether this would be better for you.
You most likely will start by taking only a little of the medicine and then slowly take more. It may take several weeks before you know the medicine is working and know the best dose. If you do not see any benefits within 6 weeks, ask your doctor if you need to try another type of medicine.
Do not abruptly stop taking these medicines. Do not skip doses. If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but do not take more than one dose at a time.
The first-generation and second-generation antipsychotic medicines both can help the symptoms of schizophrenia. Which medicine is best for you usually depends on how well a medicine has worked for you in the past and its side effects. Your doctor will help you find the best medicine for you.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF) 
(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: August 19, 2010 |
| Medical Review: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Miklos Ferenc Losonczy, MD, PhD - Psychiatry | |
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