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Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a life-threatening, neurological disorder most often caused by an adverse reaction to neuroleptic or antipsychotic drugs.
Causes
NMS is caused almost exclusively by antipsychotics, which includes all types of neuroleptic medicines along with newer antipsychotic drugs. The higher the dosage, the more common the occurrence. Rapid and large increases in dosage can also be attributed with the development of NMS. Other drugs, environmental or psychological factors, hereditary conditions, and specific demographics may be at greater risk, but to date no conclusive evidence has been found to support this. The disorder typically develops within two weeks of the initial treatment with the drug, but may develop at any time that the drug is being taken. NMS may also occur in people taking a class of drugs known as dopaminergics.
Signs and Symptoms
The first symptom to develop is usually muscular rigidity, followed by high fever and changes in cognitive functions. Other symptoms can vary, but may be unstable blood pressure, confusion, coma, delirium, muscle tremors, etc. Once symptoms do appear, they rapidly progress and can reach peak intensity in no more than three days. These symptoms can last as little as eight hours or as long as forty days. More on [ Neuroleptic malignant syndrome ]
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Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome - Clinical features, the pathophysiology and treatment.
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Information Service - Information about the service as well as the disease itself. Includes research, a hot line and references.
Meta Description: [ NMSIS is a resource for initiatives surrounding NMS and other heat-related disorders. ]
NINDS Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Information Page - Compiled by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Meta Description: [ Neuroleptic malignant syndrome information sheet compiled by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). ]
NORD: Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome - Offers synonyms, a general discussion and further resources.
Meta Description: [ National Organization for Rare Disorders is dedicated to helping people with rare, orphan diseases. Rarediseases.org contains information on the prevention, treatment and cure of rare diseases. ]
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Virtual Hospital: Clinical Psychopharmacology Seminar - Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: Includes an introduction, the etiology, clinical features, complications, incidence, risk factors and treatment.
Meta Description: [ Virtual Hospital was a digital library of health information in pediatrics, paediatrics, and radiology for pediatric education and radiology education ]
