Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

Abstract

Key Points

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is characterized by fever, muscular rigidity, and dysautonomia after exposure to dopamine-blocking agents, especially antipsychotic drugs.

Clinical criteria for diagnosis vary and may include an altered level of consciousness, but the syndrome is a rare and unpredictable complication of antipsychotic drugs.

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome may lead to major medical complications, which clinicians can anticipate.

Treatment, which is empirical, includes muscle relaxants and close monitoring, usually in an intensive care unit.

There is a low risk of recurrence after reexposure, but some risk remains.