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Case Reports
. 2019 Feb 15;49(1):84-91.

An Approach to the Pharmacotherapy of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

Affiliations
Case Reports

An Approach to the Pharmacotherapy of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

Roland van Rensburg et al. Psychopharmacol Bull. .

Abstract

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a rare, idiosyncratic emergency associated with exposure to dopamine antagonists, commonly antipsychotic drugs. The typical clinical picture consists of altered consciousness, muscular rigidity, fever, and autonomic instability. While the condition has generally been well described, the pathophysiology is still poorly understood. The importance of this case report is to highlight the lack of robust evidence-based treatment for this emergency. We submit an approach to the pharmacotherapy of neuroleptic malignant syndrome based on the available evidence.

Keywords: amantadine; benzodiazepines; bromocriptine; dantrolene; neuroleptic malignant syndrome; pharmacotherapy; severity.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Severity and Pharmacotherapy (Adapted from Pileggi Et Al23)

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