Template:Serotonin syndrome vs neuroleptic malignant syndrome

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 serotonin syndrome typically manifests with tremor and hyperreflexia
• Elevations in CK, LFTs, and WBC, coupled with a low iron level, distinguishes NMS from serotonin syndrome among patients taking both neuroleptic and serotonin agonist medications simultaneously