Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Requires Intensive Care Monitoring: A Review with Three Cases

Abstract

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare, idiosyncratic and potentially fatal side effect of antipsychotics. The syndrome is characterised by hyperthermia (fever), muscle rigidity, autonomic disturbances and alterations of mental state. Psychotropic medications, such as typical and atypical antipsychotics, certain dopamine receptor-blocking drugs used in the treatment of nausea and gastroparesis (e.g. promethazine, metoclopramide and prochlorperazine) and antidepressants, such as amoxapine, have all been implicated in the aetiology of NMS. Herein, we report three cases of NMS and discuss their possible aetiology with reference to the existing literature.