What is a potential complication of haloperidol in relation to gastrointestinal function?

Haloperidol, an antipsychotic medication, can lead to adynamic ileus as a potential gastrointestinal complication. Adynamic ileus refers to a lack of movement in the intestines, which can result in a blockage or obstruction without any physical blockage present. This condition can occur due to the medication's effects on the autonomic nervous system and its potential to induce extrapyramidal symptoms. Antipsychotics, particularly first-generation ones like haloperidol, have been associated with gastrointestinal dysfunction due to their action on dopamine receptors, which can influence gastrointestinal motility.

While constipation is a more common gastrointestinal side effect associated with antipsychotics, adynamic ileus is a more serious and less frequently encountered condition that can arise as a consequence of reduced bowel motility. In cases of adynamic ileus, patients may experience symptoms such as abdominal distension, pain, and an absence of bowel sounds, which necessitate careful monitoring when a patient is on haloperidol. Thus, understanding haloperidol's relationship to adynamic ileus highlights the importance of monitoring gastrointestinal function during treatment with this medication.