Neuroleptic malignant syndrome - Symptoms, Causes, Images, and Treatment Options

Diseases

Highlights & Basics

Key Highlights

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a potentially life-threatening complication of treatment with antipsychotic drugs, or abrupt withdrawal of dopamine agonists.
Characterized by a tetrad of altered mental status, muscle rigidity, autonomic instability, and hyperthermia.
A diagnosis of exclusion. Common differential diagnoses are sepsis and drug reactions.
NMS is a medical emergency. Treatment consists of immediate cessation of the offending medication and provision of supportive measures (hydration and cooling). Additional treatment may be considered if supportive interventions fail.
A delay of at least 2 weeks in restarting antipsychotic treatment is advised following full resolution of an NMS episode.

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Citations

Key Articles

American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, 5th ed, text revision (DSM-5-TR). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association; 2022.

Referenced Articles

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