Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome
Alternate Terms:- NMS
- Drug-Induced Movement Disorder
- Neuroleptic-Induced Acute Dystonia
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a life-threatening reaction that may occur as a result of taking certain antipsychotic medications. The exact cause of this syndrome is not known, but it may occur when the medication causes a malfunction in the system that regulates the body's temperature.
The first signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome include high fever and changes in a person's heart and breathing patterns. People who take antipsychotic medications and develop these symptoms need to be seen immediately by a health professional.
| Author: | Jeannette Curtis |
| Medical Review: | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated: May 25, 2007 | |
© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise discalims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use.