HALOPERIDOL VERSUS OLANZAPINE: WHICH IS SAFER?

Objectives: To compare the full spectrum of adverse effects of haloperidol and olanzapine.

Participants and Methods: 40 patients diagnosed as paranoid schizophrenia were randomized to receive either olanzapine or haloperidol. Assessments were carried out at baseline, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months using positive and negative syndrome scale for schizophrenia, Arizona sexual experiences scale and extrapyramidal symptoms rating scale. Biochemical investigations like lipid profile, fasting blood glucose, serum prolactin were also carried out.

Results: Both the drugs improved psychopathology significantly at all the assessment points. Haloperidol caused significant extrapyramidal symptoms and worsening in sexual functioning whereas olanzapine was associated with significantly higher metabolic side effects.

Conclusion: Adverse effects of antipsychotics remain a major area of concern for patients as well as psychiatrists. The monitoring of side effects should be done in all patients who are prescribed antipsychotics.