What is Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)?
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) is a potentially fatal condition that has been associated with the administration of antipsychotic drugs. Clinical manifestations of NMS are hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status and evidence of autonomic instability (irregular pulse or blood pressure, tachycardia, diaphoresis and cardiac dysrhythmia). Additional signs may include elevated creatinine phosphokinase, myoglobinuria (rhabdomyolysis), and acute renal failure. The management of NMS should include immediate discontinuation of all antipsychotic drugs, such as Zyprexa, intensive monitoring of symptoms and treatment of any associated medical problems.
