Drug interactions
Droperidol + Haloperidol
Severity: Major
Droperidol and Haloperidol: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Both agents prolong the QT interval, and using them together adds to the risk of torsades de pointes and sudden cardiac death. The risk rises with electrolyte disturbances, structural heart disease or high doses.
What this interaction means in plain words
Droperidol and Haloperidol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
Additive blockade of the cardiac hERG potassium channel causing delayed ventricular repolarization.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible and choose a non-QT-prolonging alternative. If unavoidable, correct potassium and magnesium and monitor the ECG.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
Other interactions of Haloperidol
- Dofetilide + Haloperidol Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Haloperidol Contraindicated
- Haloperidol + Ibutilide Contraindicated
- Haloperidol + Levoketoconazole Contraindicated
- Haloperidol + Panobinostat Contraindicated
- Haloperidol + Pimozide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Droperidol with Haloperidol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Droperidol and Haloperidol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Both agents prolong the QT interval, and using them together adds to the risk of torsades de pointes and sudden cardiac death. The risk rises with electrolyte disturbances, structural heart disease or high doses.
How serious is the interaction between Droperidol and Haloperidol?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the combination where possible and choose a non-QT-prolonging alternative. If unavoidable, correct potassium and magnesium and monitor the ECG.
What other medicines interact with Haloperidol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Haloperidol with, for example, Dofetilide, Dronedarone, Ibutilide. The full list is on the Haloperidol page.
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