Key takeaways
Haloperidol (Haldol) and chlorpromazine (Thorazine) are both typical antipsychotics, but they have some key differences. Haloperidol is primarily used to treat schizophrenia and is available in oral forms, as well as a long-acting injection given monthly or as a short-acting injection for acute agitation. In contrast, chlorpromazine has a broader range of uses, including treating schizophrenia, nausea, vomiting, pre-surgery anxiety, and severe behavioral issues in children. Chlorpromazine is available in oral, intramuscular, and intravenous forms. Both medications can cause weight gain, movement-related side effects, and drowsiness, but Haloperidol can also prolong the QT interval. Both medications carry a higher risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis and can cause serious side effects like neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
