Treatment
NMS is a medical emergency, and can lead to death if untreated. The first step is to stop neuroleptic drugs and treat the hyperthermia aggressively, such as with cooling blankets or ice packs to the axillae and groin. Supportive care in an intensive care unit capable of circulatory and ventilatory support is crucial. The correct pharmacological treatment is still unclear. Dantrolene has been used when needed to reduce muscle rigidity, and more recently dopamine pathway medications such as bromocriptine have shown benefit. Apomorphine may be used however its use is supported by little evidence. Benzodiazepines may be used to control agitation. Highly elevated blood myoglobin levels can result in kidney damage, therefore aggressive intravenous hydration with diuresis may be required. When recognized early NMS can be successfully managed, however up to 10% of cases can be fatal.
Read more about this topic: Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome
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—C. John Sommerville (20th century)