Second generation antipsychotics causing neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Abstract

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare yet potentially lethal medical emergency encountered by psychiatrists. NMS is commonly associated with potent first generation antipsychotics, especially haloperidol and fluphenazine. However, there are many case reports of NMS caused by treatment with second generation antipsychotics (SGA). Mortality from NMS caused by SGA may be less and the presentation may also be different. The article discusses two case reports of neuroleptic malignant syndrome caused by SGA both of which have some unusual features.