Haloperidol Dosing for a 17-Year-Old
2 mg of haloperidol is an appropriate dose for a 17-year-old adolescent with acute agitation, as it falls within the recommended dosing range of 0.5-2 mg for adolescents according to pediatric guidelines. 1
Recommended Dosing by Age Group
The American Academy of Pediatrics provides clear guidance on haloperidol dosing for different age groups:
- Adolescents (17 years old): 0.5-1 mg initially, with a recommended dose of 2-5 mg 1
- Children (prepubertal, 6-12 years): 0.25-0.50 mg
- Adults: 2 mg PO/IM (standard dose)
Administration and Timing
- Haloperidol can be administered orally or intramuscularly
- May be repeated every 30-60 minutes as needed for continued agitation
- For oral administration in adolescents, the FDA recommends starting at the lower end of the dosing range 2
Monitoring and Safety Considerations
When administering haloperidol to a 17-year-old, monitor for:
- Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) - dystonic reactions are common adverse effects 1
- Orthostatic hypotension - particularly with initial dosing
- Cardiac effects - QT prolongation has been reported with haloperidol 1
- Sedation - which may be beneficial or problematic depending on the clinical situation
Special Considerations for Adolescents
- Adolescents may be more sensitive to extrapyramidal side effects than adults
- Lower starting doses may be appropriate for first-time use or in smaller adolescents
- The 2 mg dose is particularly appropriate for:
- Moderate to severe agitation
- Acute psychotic symptoms
- When rapid control of symptoms is needed
Alternative Approaches
For adolescents with severe agitation, guidelines suggest:
- Older adolescents (>16 years): Haloperidol + lorazepam or midazolam 1
- Younger adolescents (12-16 years): Consider lower initial doses (0.5-1 mg)
Conclusion
The 2 mg dose of haloperidol falls within the recommended dosing range for a 17-year-old according to pediatric guidelines. This dose balances efficacy in controlling acute agitation with an acceptable side effect profile. However, close monitoring for extrapyramidal symptoms and other adverse effects is essential, especially during initial treatment.