First-generation antipsychotic (butyrophenone)

Benperidol

Brand names: Anquil

Benperidol is a butyrophenone first-generation antipsychotic that has been used to control deviant antisocial sexual behaviour.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It is a potent dopamine D2 receptor antagonist, blocking dopaminergic neurotransmission in the central nervous system.

Prescribing in practice

As a high-potency typical antipsychotic it carries a high risk of extrapyramidal side effects, including acute dystonia and tardive dyskinesia, and rarely neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
It can prolong the QT interval; caution is needed with other QT-prolonging drugs and in cardiac disease.
Use cautiously in the elderly, in Parkinson's disease and in those with epilepsy.

Monitoring

Monitor for extrapyramidal symptoms and, where relevant, ECG and prolactin, alongside response.

Counselling the patient

Report any abnormal movements, muscle stiffness or restlessness.
Avoid alcohol, which increases drowsiness.
Take as directed and do not stop abruptly without advice.

Evidence & guidelines

Use is based on the SPC and established clinical experience rather than large modern trials.

Reference: RCPsych prescribing guideline; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Calculators

Pathways