Key takeaways
Haloperidol (Haldol) and loxapine (Loxitane) are both typical antipsychotics used to treat schizophrenia, but they have some key differences. Haloperidol is available in oral forms, as well as an injection, either long-acting or short-acting, while loxapine is taken orally as capsules. Haloperidol works by blocking dopamine activity in the brain, whereas loxapine's exact mechanism is unclear but is thought to regulate both dopamine and serotonin levels. Haloperidol long-acting injection is typically given monthly by a healthcare provider, while loxapine is taken once or twice daily. Haloperidol has a lower risk of weight gain compared to some other antipsychotics, but it has a higher risk of movement-related side effects. Loxapine can cause drowsiness and has a risk of causing uncontrollable muscle movements that might not go away after stopping the medication. Both medications should not be used in older adults with dementia-related psychosis due to a higher risk of death.
