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 (or resumption of the dopamine agonist) 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.

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Referenced Articles

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