Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a neurological disorder which is characterised by the altered mental health, muscle rigidity hyperthermia and autonomic hyperactivity. The condition occurs as a result of adverse reaction to neuroleptic or antipsychotic drugs. The condition usually develops within the first few weeks of the treatment with drugs. However neuroleptic malignant syndrome may develop any time during the therapy period. It could also develop due to the anti-parkinsonism drugs.
Symptoms of Neuroleptic Malignant syndrome
Common symptoms of the condition include :
- Hyperthermia
- Autonomic hyperactivity
- High fever
- Sweating
- Unstable blood pressure
- Stupor
- Muscular rigidity
Treatment
The causative drugs are stopped and complications are treated supportively in intensive care units. Fever is treated aggressively and muscle relaxants are advised. Apart from these steps, the doctor will advice dopaminergic drugs such as dopamine agonist.
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