Template:Serotonin syndrome vs neuroleptic malignant syndrome

History of a new serotonergic drug or a dose increase of a serotonergic drug are helpful
Serotonin syndrome is usually much more acute in onset than NMS which may develop over days or weeks
Presence of ‘lead pipe’ rigidity is typical of NMS, while patients with serotonin syndrome manifest tremor and hyperreflexia
Elevations in CK, LFTs, and WBC, coupled with a low iron level, distinguishes NMS from serotonin syndrome among patients taking neuroleptic and serotonin agonist medications simultaneously