Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome and Related Conditions

Book excerpt: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) and other hyperthermic conditions are rare complications of antipsychotic drugs that can cause discomfort, disability, and even death. As a result, every psychiatrist, physician, and mental health care professional needs to understand and identify these disorders in time to prevent a fatal outcome. Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome and Related Conditions is an important tool for clinicians, outlining a framework for understanding, diagnosing, treating, and preventing these little-understood disorders. This new edition extensively updates and revises the first edition, integrating an explosion of findings that have occurred since the earlier edition was published in 1989. In addition to NMS, chapters focus on antipsychotic drug-related heatstroke, hyperthermia associated with other neuropsychiatric drugs, and malignant catatonia, as well as A new chapter on serotonin syndrome, the first comprehensive review to appear in the world literature. With the proliferation of serotonergic drugs such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), the incidence of adverse reactions is on the rise, and this information will help practitioners spot early warning signals. Important information on thermoregulatory mechanisms to help clinicians understand the pathogenesis of hyperthermic conditions. With an understanding of the basic mechanisms underlying these conditions, practitioners will develop more effective strategies for recognition, diagnosis, and treatment. Written by four internationally renowned authorities on NMS, Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome and Related Conditions is the most comprehensive resource on the subject in existence. With nearly 850 citations in the reference section, it is a must for researchers -- and for practitioners who need a practical approach based on the most current science.