What should be the dosage of Haldol for elderly patients?

In elderly patients, it is essential to be cautious with medication dosages due to increased sensitivity to drugs and a greater risk of side effects. The use of Haldol, an antipsychotic, necessitates careful dose adjustments in the elderly to avoid complications such as sedation, extrapyramidal symptoms, and cardiovascular effects.

A dosage of 2.5 mg represents a prudent approach for elderly individuals, aligning with the principle of starting low and going slow in this population. Lower doses help to mitigate the potential for adverse effects and provide an opportunity to monitor the patient's response safely before considering any adjustments.

In contrast, standard or higher doses, such as 5 mg or 10 mg, may not take into account the unique pharmacological changes and increased susceptibility in older adults, which could lead to unnecessary risk. Therefore, the choice of 2.5 mg reflects best practices for safely managing psychiatric symptoms while minimizing the potential for harm in elderly patients.