- Muscular rigidity
- Autonomic instability
- Fever
- Changes in cognition (e.g., delirium)

Rutgers University

A drug-induced neurologic disorder caused by neuroleptic and antipsychotic drugs. Thought to result from dopamine receptor D2 blockade in the corpus striatum, spinal cord, and hypothalamus. Once begun, symptoms progress rapidly and reach peak severity at 72 hours. 

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

Lane RJ, Routledge PA. Drug-induced neurological disorders. Drugs. 1983;26(2):124-147. doi:10.2165/00003495-198326020-00002



Drug-Induced Neurologic Conditions

- First-generation antipsychotics (chlorpromazine and haloperidol)
- Drugs with dopamine-antagonist activity (metoclopramide)
- Abrupt discontinuation of dopamine agonists (levodopa)

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