Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: A Primary Care Perspective

Sanjay Gupta, M.D., and Nikhil D. Nihalani, M.D.

In recent years, there has been an increased use of neuroleptic agents in the primary care setting. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare complication of neuroleptic therapy that can be missed if not suspected. This manuscript reviews the diagnosis and management of NMS in the primary care setting. There is a lack of prospective data, and most of the information is obtained from case series. Physicians need to have a high index of suspicion with regard to excluding NMS in patients taking neuroleptics and presenting with hyperthermia.

(Prim Care Companion J Clin Psychiatry 2004;6:191-194)

Received March 5, 2004; accepted July 8, 2004. From the Department of Psychiatry, University of Buffalo, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, N.Y., and the Department of Psychiatry, Olean General Hospital, Olean, N.Y. (Dr. Gupta); and Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester, N.Y (Dr. Nihalani).

The authors report no financial affiliation or other relationship relevant to the subject matter of this article.

Corresponding author and reprints: Sanjay Gupta, M.D., 515 Main Street, Olean, NY 14760 (e-mail: Sgupta1@adelphia.net).