Last Updated on March 2, 2021 by
Other treatment options may not have been feasible during a crisis. Perhaps now is the time to consider transitioning to drug-free ways to reduce and eliminate symptoms.
Last Updated on March 2, 2021 by
Other treatment options may not have been feasible during a crisis. Perhaps now is the time to consider transitioning to drug-free ways to reduce and eliminate symptoms.
As much as we may desire it, a drug may not be the complete answer we were searching for to manage unwanted symptoms. Do not despair, because Alternative to Meds Center has designed practical alternative solutions. Considering the potential hazards and mishaps connected with haloperidol and other antipsychotic medications, many persons find they cannot cope and are looking for a better alternative.
Side effects and insufficient relief are only part of a bigger picture. Many antipsychotic users ultimately feel disconnected from themselves and from life, encounter physical dependence and tolerance to the drug, withdrawal effects, and a multitude of other problems. Traditional health care professionals are trained to treat (numb) symptoms with medications rather than correct whatever is causing the unwanted symptom. Some of these drug effects produce serious harm and can be fatal.1
In contrast, a truly comprehensive haloperidol alternatives treatment plan includes an investigation into the source of symptoms, especially those that were present before starting the medication. With few exceptions, symptoms or side effects that presented after medication will generally abate over time once the medication is reduced or eliminated. Treatment plans that are based on the discoveries from Alternative to Meds Center help to ensure the comfort and safety of our clients. In summary, we do treat symptoms, but we also treat their causes.
* Lithium Orotate 5-25mg shown to be effective mood stabilizer according to clinical studies as published in the Journal of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
** A hypoglycemic diet features foods high in protein, low in refined carbs and sugars served in about 6 small portions or meals over the course of a day.
Personalized haloperidol alternatives solutions are different for each individual. However, there are some common denominators. In our experience, psychotic disorders are usually the result of a perfect storm comprising several common factors that are discussed below.
One such factor is poor diet. A clean, mostly organic diet is deliciously prepared so that nutritional needs are well met. Along with targeted nutritional supplements, these strategies provide the raw materials so that natural neurochemistry has the best chance of being restored. Supporting the gut-brain connection is of utmost importance in recovery from mental health challenges, especially where medications have been involved.2
It has been well-established that certain nutrient deficiencies can mimic illnesses that may have taken years to develop through overlooking chronically insufficient nutrition. Thankfully, these are easy to test for and correct.
Another is having been exposed to toxins that accumulate over time. Toxic materials are just about everywhere in our modern environment. And, even in rural settings, exposure to pesticides or other accumulating toxins is possible. Importantly, because toxicity is such a common culprit, and is so debilitating to natural neurochemistry, a major aspect of our program is focused on removing these toxins.
Low-temperature sauna, chelation, mineral baths, ionic foot baths, and many other methods are provided to ensure the cleanout is as thorough as possible.3
Alternative to Meds Center’s staff includes on-site medical professionals to assist. There are several phases to treatment, such as reducing dependence, preventing withdrawal symptoms, and smoothly transitioning to a more natural mental health approach.
Many of our staff have experienced their own journey from medication to natural alternatives, and wish to help others do the same. This authentic understanding and compassion are great assets for our clients.
Each phase is programmed uniquely for the client to ensure maximum comfort and effectiveness. This is done through thoughtfully designed tapering plans, lab testing that provides answers to what may be causing the symptoms, neurotoxin removal, and neurochemistry stabilization using natural substances. Throughout the process, the client and their team will work in tandem to discuss progress and initiate micro-changes that may be beneficial. An open dialogue is thought to be the best approach to care.
Haloperidol is the generic name for Haldol. This is classed as a “typical” or sometimes called “conventional,” or first-generation antipsychotic medication. The typical antipsychotics were the first ones to be developed and sold in the treatment of mental illness. More recent antipsychotics are differentiated by their “atypical” or “second-generation” moniker. These drugs seem to work when first taking them, but generally, end up being intolerable over long-term use. The most often heard complaints associated with haloperidol include inefficiency and harsh side effects such as loss of enjoyment of life and others.
Haloperidol is manufactured under various brand names, such as Haldol, Haldol Decanoate, Peridol, etc. Dosages range from .05mg up to 20mg tablets. Or the haloperidol lactate version can be given intravenously or intramuscularly, with dosages that may be significantly higher. This might be given, for instance, to a patient in an aggressive state of mania who is otherwise unmanageable.
There is a wide range of symptoms that haloperidol has been used to dampen, such as in children who are behaviorally explosive or to subdue someone who is suicidal, has Tourette’s Disorder, or to quieten a person experiencing an acute psychotic episode. Haloperidol is also given to persons with schizophrenia, and similar delirium-related conditions. Haloperidol restricts dopamine, resulting in slowed breathing, reduces feelings of aggression, or uncontrolled movements. Drug treatment may have been quite necessary, but can also go on way too long in some cases. Some of the long term effects of haloperidol (Haldol) can not be reversed.4,5 There are relatively few studies performed on the long term effects of antipsychotic medications, but the ones that are available advise caution in prolonged usage. If negative effects begin to outweigh benefits, it may be time to consider an alternative strategy.
We are here to help.We invite you to call us directly to learn more about Haloperidol alternatives help, insurance coverage, and any other specific questions you may have.
1. Wilkinson R, Meythaler J, Guin-Renfroe S, “Haloperidol Medication Can Cause Severe or Fatal Reactions.” Brain Injury Association of America [Internet] 1999. [cited 2020 Jul 30]
2. Boon H, Hazra M, Noh S, Mamo D, Moss K, Taylor A, “Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Psychotic Disorders.” Journal of Alternative Complementary Medicine, published by Google Scholar [Internet] 2010 [cited 2020 Jul 30]
3. NHS Information Sheet, “Poisoning – Symptoms” NHS [Internet] 2018 May 31 [cited 2020 Jul 30]
4. NAMI Patient Information “What are possible long term effects of haloperidol (Haldol)?” provided by CPNP (Creative Commons) [Internet] 2020 Feb [cited 2020 Oct 6]
5. Cobos E, et al., ” Irreversible blockade of sigma-1 receptors by haloperidol and its metabolites in guinea pig brain and SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells.” Journal of Neurochemistry [Internet] PMID 17419803 2007 Aug [cited 2020 Nov 19]
Dr. Samuel Lee is a board-certified psychiatrist, specializing in a spiritually-based mental health discipline and integrative approaches. He graduated with an MD at Loma Linda University School of Medicine and did a residency in psychiatry at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle. He has also been an inpatient adult psychiatrist at Kaweah Delta Mental Health Hospital and the primary attending geriatric psychiatrist at the Auerbach Inpatient Psychiatric Jewish Home Hospital. In addition, he served as the general adult outpatient psychiatrist at Kaiser Permanente. He is board-certified in psychiatry and neurology and has a B.A. Magna Cum Laude in Religion from Pacific Union College. His specialty is in natural healing techniques that promote the body’s innate ability to heal itself.
Diane is an avid supporter and researcher of natural mental health strategies. Diane received her medical writing and science communication certification through Stanford University and has published over 3 million words on the topics of holistic health, addiction, recovery, and alternative medicine. She has proudly worked with the Alternative to Meds Center since its inception and is grateful for the opportunity to help the founding members develop this world-class center that has helped so many thousands regain natural mental health.
Can you imagine being free from medications, addictive drugs, and alcohol? This is our goal and we are proving it is possible every day!
Read All StoriesView All Videos