A Controlled Trial of Haloperidol in Children

A controlled, double-blind, crossover trial of haloperidol in a group of 16 children with behaviour disorders is described. Selection was based on the presence of at least four of the following symptoms: overactivity, restlessness, aggressiveness, temper, attention-seeking behaviour, disobedience, destructiveness, poor concentration. Benzhexol was administered concurrently with both active and placebo tablets. Thirteen children were rated as better on haloperidol, two as better on placebo and one as showing no difference. This result is statistically significant. Side-effects were minimal. It is concluded that haloperidol merits more extensive trial in conditions of the type studied.