Haloperidol mirror determination

Haloperidol mirror determination is a laboratory test that measures the concentration of haloperidol in the blood. Haloperidol is an antipsychotic prescribed for the treatment of schizophrenia, manic episodes in bipolar disorder and severe tics or agitation, among others.

Blood level determination may be requested to:

• Monitor the effectiveness of treatment - Too low a level may not produce sufficient effect.
• Side effects to avoid - Excessive levels can lead to serious side effects such as extrapyramidal symptoms (muscle stiffness, tremors, restlessness).
• Monitor therapy adherence - When a patient is suspected of not taking the medication or taking it irregularly.
• Assess interaction with other medications - Some medications affect the breakdown of haloperidol, which may increase or decrease blood levels.