This  disorder affects the neurological system that can be life threatening.

Most often seen as an adverse reaction to medications  –  neuroleptic or antipsychotic drugs

Dopaminergic receptors in the brain are believed to be blocked.

Result is a change in skeletal muscle causing an increased in heat generation along with difficulty with regulation of temperature

Increased dosing of medication increases risk on NMS

Occurs in 0.2% of those taking the above mentioned medications

Symptoms

-     Muscle rigidity  -  *** usually one of the first symptoms
-     Fever                     -  *** usually one of the first symptoms
-     Change in blood pressure
-     Mental status changes
-     Confusion
-     Tremors of muscle
-     Visual changes

Mnemonic

F   -    Fever
E   -    Encephalopathy
V   -    Vitals unstable
E   -    Elevated Enzymes (CPK elevation)
R   -    Rigidity of muscles

Treatment

This is an emergent medical situation

Death is possible without treatment

Medication must be stopped initially

Hospital visit

Hydration

Treat for fever

-    Ice packs
-    Placement in groin, under arms, and chest region

Possible need for ventilation

Medication

.         Dantrolene sodium

.         Bromocriptine

.         Apomorphine

.         Benzodiazepines

*** – in some cases when the drug causing this condition is restarted – a recurrence of symptoms may occur – but for the most part it does not.