Neuroleptic malignant syndrome associated with atypical antipsychotic drugs

Overcoming clozapine's adverse events: a narrative review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses

INTRODUCTION

Clozapine is the gold standard treatment for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, however adverse events remain a clinical challenge.

AREAS COVERED

This review presents a narrative synthesis of systematic reviews and meta-analyses that have reported the onset, incidence, prevalence, and management of clozapine's adverse events. We conducted a systematic literature search using PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, OvidMEDLINE, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from inception to April 2024.

EXPERT OPINION

Effective management of clozapine's adverse events necessitates multi-faceted, individualized, and shared-decision strategies. Despite a lack of high-quality systematic evidence, expert inter-disciplinary solutions are provided to help address a critical need for clinical guidance. This 35-year update offers an evidence-based framework to assist clinicians, patients, and caregivers navigate the adverse events associated with clozapine therapy.

What clinical analysis of antipsychotic-induced catatonia and neuroleptic malignant syndrome tells us about the links between these two syndromes: A systematic review

OBJECTIVES

Antipsychotic-induced catatonia (AIC) and neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) are life-threatening adverse reactions to antipsychotic medication. We conducted a systematic review of literature following the PRISMA statement guidelines to obtain a description of these syndromes (population, context of occurrence, antipsychotic agents implicated) and draw conclusions about their links.

METHODS

We searched Medline and Web of science databases from January 1951 to May 2019 (further restricted from 2000 to 2019) using search terms including "catatonia", "neuroleptic malignant syndrome" and "antipsychotic agents" for case reports, case series and analytic studies. After screening 4082 records, 410 full-text articles (describing 555 events) were assessed for eligibility. We included events of AIC and/or NMS according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) criteria and extracted data about patients' characteristics, context of occurrence, antipsychotic agent(s) involved and treatment outcomes.

RESULTS

We included 165 events (16 AIC, 129 NMS and 20 AIC + NMS) from 144 case reports and case series. The most reported diagnosis was schizophrenia. Comorbid pre-existing conditions such as central nervous system diseases and acute medical events were common. Most of the events (63.3 %) occurred during antipsychotic monotherapy. Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs, 63.8 %) were overall more implicated than first-generation antipsychotics (FGAs, 36.2 %).

DISCUSSION

Our findings highlight that any antipsychotic medication, even SGA monotherapy prescribed at recommended dose, is at risk for these side effects. FGAs and polypharmacy seem to represent risk factors for malignant catatonia in AIC. The clinical overlap observed between AIC and NMS events in our review suggests a clinical continuum between catatonia and NMS.

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome in Patients With Dementia: Experiences of A Single Memory Clinic

OBJECTIVES

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a life-threatening condition that occurs as an adverse reaction to antipsychotic and antiemetic agents or sudden withdrawal of dopaminergic medications. Given the metabolic and functional reserves and the comorbidities in older adults, NMS may show an atypical course.

METHODS

The medical records of patients with neurodegenerative diseases leading to dementia between 2013 and 2020 were reviewed for the diagnosis of NMS. Demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients were obtained from the records of laboratory parameters, management, and length of stay.

RESULTS

Fifteen older adults (19 episodes) diagnosed with NMS were included. The median age was 76 years, and 5 were female. Ten of 15 NMS patients were atypical. Most of them had an infection accompanying NMS. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome was caused by antidopaminergic agents (5 antipsychotics, 1 metoclopramide) in 6 episodes and discontinuation of a dopaminergic agent, l -DOPA, in 12 episodes. In 1 patient, it was associated with simultaneous use of domperidone and amantadine withdrawal. Rigidity in NMS due to l -DOPA discontinuation was higher than in those due to antipsychotic use ( P = 0.027). Two of our patients needed intensive care, and 1 died.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the high frequency of atypical NMS and the importance of early recognition of this potentially fatal syndrome, which can accompany neurodegenerative diseases and infections in older adults.

Loxapine in the Treatment of Manic and Psychotic Symptoms in an Individual Intolerant to Multiple Mood-Stabilizing and Antipsychotic Medications

First-line treatments for schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder include antipsychotics and mood stabilizers, but their use may at times be limited due to severe adverse events. This case describes a 41-year-old male with a history of schizoaffective disorder and polysubstance use who was admitted to an inpatient psychiatry unit for acute manic and psychotic symptoms in the setting of absconding from his residential home and noncompliance with prescribed psychiatric medications. During his inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, he experienced DRESS (drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms) with valproate, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus with lithium, potential neuroleptic malignant syndrome with risperidone, and orthostasis/tachycardia with clozapine. He ultimately achieved stabilization of manic and psychotic symptoms with loxapine without experiencing adverse events. This report highlights the potential utility of loxapine in individuals with schizoaffective disorder intolerant to standard mood-stabilizing and antipsychotic medications.

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome associated with atypical antipsychotics: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is uncommon, with an incidence of 0.01%-3.23%, and is associated with the use of drugs that intervene with dopamine, causing hyperthermia, muscular rigidity, confusion, autonomic instability and death.

CASE REPORT

A 35-year-old man with a history of catatonia, refractory epilepsy and functional impairment, required frequent changes in his anticonvulsant and antipsychotic treatment, due to adverse effects. During 2019, in the month of July, clozapine was changed to amisulpride, in September he developed fever, muscle stiffness, stupor, diaphoresis and tachypnea over a two-week period; paraclinical tests showed elevated creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and leukocytosis, so NMS was considered. The antipsychotic was withdrawn and he was treated with bromocriptine and biperiden, with a good response. Ten days after discharge, he began treatment with olanzapine, which generated a similar episode to the one described in December, with subsequent management and resolution.

DISCUSSION

The diagnosis is based on the use of drugs that alter dopamine levels, plus altered state of consciousness, fever, autonomic instability and paraclinical tests showing leukocytosis and elevated CPK. Differential diagnoses must be ruled out. Early diagnosis generally leads to total remission, although some patients will suffer complications, long-term sequelae or recurrences. The recurrence in this case derived from the early reintroduction of the neuroleptic after the first episode. Treatment should be individualised according to severity to avoid mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Atypical antipsychotics are rarely suspected of generating NMS. Moreover, the time to reintroduction after an episode must also be taken into account.

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease with neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (CJD) is a rare rapidly progressive fatal neurodegenerative disease. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a complication of antipsychotic medications which may be used to treat neuropsychiatric symptoms of CJD. We present a case of a 51‐year‐ old woman with CJD who developed NMS after being prescribed quetiapine.

Serotonin Syndrome Triggered by Increasing the Dose of Quetiapine

Case presentation

An 85-year-old woman with a history of depression treated with polypharmacy including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor presented to the emergency department with head, and upper and lower limb tremors four hours after increasing the dose of quetiapine from 12.5 milligrams (mg) per day to 25 mg/day. She was diagnosed with serotonin syndrome (SS), and all medications except clotiazepam were discontinued. The symptoms subsided within 48 hours.

Discussion

The use of atypical antipsychotics alone seldom increases the risk of SS. However, combining atypical antipsychotics with serotonergic agents increases the risk of SS because the activity of serotonin receptor subtype 1A is relatively enhanced. This report suggests that physicians should be aware that even a small increase in quetiapine could pose a risk of developing SS.

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Associated with Atypical Antipsychotics: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is uncommon, with an incidence of 0.01% to 3.23%, and is associated with the use of drugs that intervene with dopamine, causing hyperthermia, muscular rigidity, confusion, autonomic instability and death.

CASE REPORT

A 35-year-old man with a history of catatonia, refractory epilepsy and functional impairment, required frequent changes in his anticonvulsant and antipsychotic treatment, due to adverse effects. During 2019, in the month of July, clozapine was changed to amisulpride, in September he developed fever, muscle stiffness, stupor, diaphoresis and tachypnea over a two-week period; paraclinical tests showed elevated creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and leukocytosis, so NMS was considered. The antipsychotic was withdrawn and he was treated with bromocriptine and biperiden, with a good response. Ten days after discharge, he began treatment with olanzapine, which generated a similar episode to the one described in December, with subsequent management and resolution.

DISCUSSION

The diagnosis is based on the use of drugs that alter dopamine levels, plus altered state of consciousness, fever, autonomic instability and paraclinical tests showing leukocytosis and elevated CPK. Differential diagnosis must be ruled out. Early diagnosis generally leads to total remission, although some patients will suffer complications, long-term sequelae or recurrences. The recurrence in this case derived from the early reintroduction of the neuroleptic after the first episode. Treatment should be individualised according to severity to avoid mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Atypical antipsychotics are rarely suspected of generating NMS. Moreover, the time to reintroduction after an episode must also be taken into account.

Reconsidering Rigidity in the Diagnosis of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: A Case Report

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare but potentially fatal syndrome classically encountered in patients receiving typical antipsychotic agents. However, many physicians have also reported the occurrence of NMS with atypical antipsychotics, notably with atypical presentations. In this report, we present a case in which a patient's antipsychotic regimen during a psychotic episode (which involved both typical and atypical antipsychotics) subsequently led to NMS. During his stay, the patient developed an altered level of consciousness, elevation of creatine phosphokinase, hemodynamic instability, and a fever. However, the patient did not have signs of rigidity, the cardinal sign of this syndrome. The authors concluded that patients could develop NMS without rigidity while receiving an antipsychotic. Given this presentation, the authors suggest that clinicians have a high level of suspicion for NMS to avoid misdiagnosis and subsequent adverse consequences. Hence, clinicians must be vigilant about atypical presentations of NMS without rigidity.

Clozapine Rechallenge Following Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE/BACKGROUND

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) has been described with most antipsychotics, most commonly first generation. Clozapine has also been associated with NMS.

METHODS/PROCEDURES

We conducted a systematic review to identify all studies investigating or describing (a) clozapine rechallenge following suspected NMS associated with clozapine, (b) clozapine use after suspected NMS associated with another antipsychotic, and (c) rechallenge with nonclozapine antipsychotics after suspected clozapine-associated NMS.

FINDINGS/RESULTS

We identified 51 reports detailing 67 cases. Thirty-eight described clozapine administration after NMS on a nonclozapine antipsychotic; 12 described a clozapine rechallenge after an NMS on clozapine monotherapy; and 17 described the use of nonclozapine antipsychotics after an NMS on clozapine. The outcome of clozapine rechallenge was favorable (no recurrence of NMS) in 92% (n = 11) of cases after an NMS on clozapine and in 79% (n = 30) of those prescribed clozapine following NMS on a nonclozapine antipsychotic. Most (82%; n = 14) cases after NMS on clozapine had no recurrence of NMS on receiving a nonclozapine antipsychotic.No mortality was reported with any of these interventions.

IMPLICATIONS/CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that rechallenge following clozapine NMS is possible, and with careful risk-benefit analysis consideration, a clozapine rechallenge can be made. A publication bias in favor of cases in which rechallenge was successful is probable and is an important limitation.

Clinical drug development for dementia with Lewy bodies: past and present

Introduction: Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is an under-researched area despite being the second most common type of degenerative dementia after Alzheimer's disease. It is an area of unmet need with no approved symptomatic or disease-modifying therapies. The pharmacological management of DLB is complex and challenging because early trials of drugs for DLB have resulted in no demonstrable efficacy. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in the DLB population have only recently been initiated. Understanding results from previous and current clinical trials in DLB can provide insights for future research and development.Areas covered: We provide an overview of the DLB drug development landscape and the current treatment strategies. We reviewed ClinicalTrials.gov to identify all clinical trials for the treatment of DLB.Expert opinion: DLB drug development has significantly improved in recent years with eight agents now in clinical trials. However, more rigorous RCTs are urgently needed. Diagnostic criteria must be optimized to accurately diagnose patients for clinical trials and care. New biomarker strategies are necessary to improve diagnostic capabilities and trial designs, and novel drug targets should be identified to develop DLB specific disease-modifying therapies. Evaluating the current drug development landscape can provide insight into how best to optimize development practices.

Clinical utility of neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio in the diagnosis of neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Background: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a life-threatening side effect of antipsychotic medication. In this study, we aimed to investigate the hypothesis of inflammation via neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in the etiology of NMS. Methods: In this retrospective case-control study, data were collected using digital database of Bakırköy Mental Health Research and Training State Hospital by screening NMS diagnosis according to 'International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) code: G21.0' between the years of 2007 and 2017. We included 32 hospitalizations with the diagnosis of NMS and 31 other acute psychiatric hospitalizations without NMS of same patients. NLR was calculated as proportion of absolute neutrophil count to absolute lymphocyte count. Significance level was accepted as p < .05. Results: The mean NLR value of NMS group was 9.55 ± 5.13 and control group was 2.06 ± 0.71 (p < .001). According to ROC analysis in our study group, we found a mean NLR cutoff value ≥4 and lymphocyte percent cutoff of ≤18.4% have the probability of correctly identifying patients with NMS with the 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Conclusions: In this retrospective study, we considered that higher NLR value in NMS episode might be a resemblance of systemic inflammatory state. In addition, our results suggest that both NLR and lymphocyte percentage may be alternative minor criteria which are more sensitive and specific than leukocyte levels and CPK.

Adverse reaction reports of neuroleptic malignant syndrome induced by atypical antipsychotic agents in the Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report (JADER) database

AIM

This study evaluates reports on neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) as an adverse event associated with the use of atypical antipsychotic agents (AAA) in Japan. We examined NMS occurrence following monotherapy and combination therapy with AAA in real clinical practice using the Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report database.

METHODS

Adverse drug reaction reports associated with the use of one or more AAA or haloperidol were analyzed. The odds ratios of NMS occurrence after monotherapy and combination therapy with AAA without typical antipsychotic agents (TAA) relative to those after haloperidol monotherapy were estimated using multiple logistic regression.

RESULTS

Associated with the use of one or more AAA without TAA were 721 events of NMS in 11 071 cases. NMS occurrence after monotherapy with most AAA and their combinations had lower odds ratios than that after haloperidol use. However, the odds ratios after blonanserin monotherapy and combination therapies with quetiapine and zotepine, and risperidone and zotepine were estimated higher than 1.

CONCLUSION

Monotherapy or combination therapy with most AAA without TAA was not likely to cause NMS as an adverse reaction compared to haloperidol monotherapy. However, blonanserin monotherapy and combination therapies with quetiapine and zotepine, and risperidone and zotepine, possibly increase the report of NMS. Our results may provide useful information for medications such as AAA that are clinically used to treat mental disorders, though further research with more data are needed to clarify this.

Management of common adverse effects of antipsychotic medications

The benefits of antipsychotic medications are sometimes obscured by their adverse effects. These effects range from relatively minor tolerability issues (e.g., mild sedation or dry mouth) to very unpleasant (e.g., constipation, akathisia, sexual dysfunction) to painful (e.g., acute dystonias) to disfiguring (e.g., weight gain, tardive dyskinesia) to life-threatening (e.g., myocarditis, agranulocytosis). Importantly, adverse effect profiles are specific to each antipsychotic medication and do not neatly fit into first- and second-generation classifications. This paper reviews management strategies for the most frequent side effects and identifies common principles intended to optimize net antipsychotic benefits. Only use antipsychotics if the indication is clear; only continue antipsychotics if a benefit is discernible. If an antipsychotic is providing substantial benefit, and the adverse effect is not life-threatening, then the first management choice is to lower the dose or adjust the dosing schedule. The next option is to change the antipsychotic; this is often reasonable unless the risk of relapse is high. In some instances, behavioral interventions can be tried. Finally, concomitant medications, though generally not desirable, are necessary in many instances and can provide considerable relief. Among concomitant medication strategies, anticholinergic medications for dystonias and parkinsonism are often effective; beta-blockers and anticholinergic medications are useful for akathisia; and metformin may lead to slight to moderate weight loss. Anticholinergic drops applied sublingually reduce sialorrhea. Usual medications are effective for constipation or dyslipidemias. The clinical utility of recently approved treatments for tardive dyskinesia, valbenazine and deutetrabenazine, is unclear.

Diagnostic, Treatment, and System Challenges in the Management of Recurrent Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome on a General Medical Service

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), an iatrogenic form of malignant catatonia, carries high morbidity and mortality rates especially in the context of delayed recognition and standard intervention protocol of lorazepam trial. However, there is limited guidance available through literature for further management if benzodiazepine treatment is ineffective and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is not readily accessible. This case report describes a multimodal approach to address the diagnostic, treatment, and logistical system challenges in an acute medical hospital through the case of a 69-year-old man with schizophrenia who represented from a psychiatric ward with neuroleptic malignant syndrome. We educated our inpatient colleagues for timely recognition of hyperexcited subtype of catatonia to avoid iatrogenic progression to neuroleptic malignant syndrome and our medical colleagues on the clinical course of catatonic symptoms to avoid any further disagreements and delays in treatment. We advocated for timely electroconvulsive therapy in the setting of limited access and utilized creative pharmacologic strategies such as N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists and longer acting benzodiazepines while managing medical complications.

Risperidone-Associated Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome in an Inpatient With Schizophrenia, With Successful Rechallenge and 3 Year Follow-Up

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is rare but one of the most serious adverse effects of antipsychotics. Here, we report a case of risperidone-associated NMS in which a successful rechallenge of risperidone was observed with a positive follow-up. A 47-year-old female with schizophrenia was treated with risperidone 4 mg/d for 8 months in 2009 and was admitted to our hospital in 2015 owing to violent behavior under persecutory delusions. Risperidone 2 mg/d was initiated and increased to 4 mg/d 54 days later. Further, long-acting injectable (LAI) risperidone 25 mg per 2 weeks was added on hospital day 15. On hospital day 116, NMS occurred and thus we discontinued all antipsychotics including LAI risperidone, then NMS improved. We resumed LAI risperidone 25 mg per 2 weeks on hospital day 148, thus we waited for 22 days before re-starting the drug treatment. She was discharged on hospital day 371, then switched to LAI paliperidone 150 mg per 4 weeks 2 months later. At the time of a follow-up 3 years later, NMS had not reoccurred. This case reports on an unusual presentation of NMS in which no hyperthermia was observed. Furthermore, this case indicated that NMS may occur in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, this case reported important information for clinicians with regard to antipsychotic drug rechallenges and proper dosing of APs to avoid or reverse NMS.

Drug information update. Atypical antipsychotics and neuroleptic malignant syndrome: nuances and pragmatics of the association

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare but potentially fatal adverse event associated with the use of antipsychotics. Although atypical antipsychotics were initially considered to carry no risk of NMS, reports have accumulated over time implicating them in NMS causation. Almost all atypical antipsychotics have been reported to be associated with NMS. The clinical profile of NMS caused by certain atypical antipsychotics such as clozapine has been reported to be considerably different from the NMS produced by typical antipsychotics, with diaphoresis encountered more commonly, and rigidity and tremor encountered less frequently. This article briefly discusses the evidence relating to the occurrence, presentation and management of NMS induced by atypical antipsychotics.

Olanzapine-induced Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a life-threatening adverse effect usually seen with typical antipsychotic drugs. Rarely, NMS can occur with atypical antipsychotics also. A 19-year-old male diagnosed as a case of acute and transient psychotic disorder developed NMS, following the treatment with an atypical antipsychotic, olanzapine 20 mg/day. The patient was diagnosed NMS, an offending agent olanzapine was immediately withdrawn, and prompt treatment by maintaining hydration and giving bromocriptine produced recovery.

Fatal Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Associated With Quetiapine

Acute psychosis developed in an elderly patient with Parkinson disease and she was admitted and treated with quetiapine (Seroquel). One day later, high fever unexplained by infection appeared associated with restlessness, confusion, convulsion, leukocytosis, and extreme serum creatine kinase levels. She died of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) despite intensive treatment. Quetiapine is an atypical neuroleptic agent, rarely associated with NMS in the absence of other contributing drugs. Our case strongly establishes quetiapine-induced NMS (Naranjo scale 6) and is also unique in the abrupt onset and severe refractory course. The steep increase in the prescription of quetiapine worldwide mandates better recognition of this severe adverse reaction, which is fortunately rare, to allow immediate drug withdrawal and appropriate treatment.

Atypical Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Associated with Use of Clozapine

The Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) is a medical emergency of infrequent presentation in the emergency department, which is associated with the use of psychiatric drugs, such as typical and atypical antipsychotics. Our case addresses a 55-year-old patient diagnosed with undifferentiated schizophrenia for 10 years, who had been receiving clozapine and clonazepam as part of their treatment. This patient presents the symptoms of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome without fever, which improves with treatment especially with the withdrawal of clozapine. In the absence of fever and clinical improvement, the patient is considered to have an atypical presentation of this disease.

Heat stroke during long-term clozapine treatment: should we be concerned about hot weather?

OBJECTIVE

To describe the case of a patient with schizophrenia on clozapine treatment who had an episode of heat stroke.

CASE DESCRIPTION

During a heat wave in January and February 2014, a patient with schizophrenia who was on treatment with clozapine was initially referred for differential diagnose between systemic infection and neuroleptic malignant syndrome, but was finally diagnosed with heat stroke and treated with control of body temperature and hydration.

COMMENTS

This report aims to alert clinicians take this condition into consideration among other differential diagnoses, especially nowadays with the rise in global temperatures, and to highlight the need for accurate diagnosis of clinical events during pharmacological intervention, in order to improve treatment decisions and outcomes.

Akinetic crisis in dementia with Lewy bodies

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is characterised by neuroleptic hypersensitivity. It is unclear, however, whether the neuroleptic hypersensitivity implies an increased incidence of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) or of akinetic crisis (AC), which are expressions of the same possibly lethal clinical event, and whether AC in DLB can appear independently of neuroleptic treatment. In our prospective study, we assessed the incidence of AC in a cohort of DLB as compared with that in patients with Parkinson disease (PD).

METHODS

In total, 614 patients with PD and 236 DLB were recruited and followed during 2005-2013. AC was diagnosed as sudden akinetic state unresponsive to dopaminergic rescue drugs, dysphagia and serological alterations without recovery for 48 h or more requiring hospital admission. Exposure to neuroleptics was specifically evaluated, because of the high implicit risk in DLB.

RESULTS

24 patients with PD (3.9%) and 16 patients with DLB (6.8%) developed AC. 77 (32.6%) DLB and 32 (5.2%) PD were exposed to typical neuroleptics, but only 8 DLB and 3 PD presented with AC. Disease duration before AC was lower in DLB than in PD group (p<0.01). Outcome was fatal in 8 patients with (50%) DLB and 3 (12.5%) PD (p=0.05). When age and use of neuroleptics were adjusted for into a Cox proportional hazards model predicting time to AC, the HR of patients with DLB was 13.0 (95% CI 4.23 to 39.9; p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

AC in DLB can appear independently of neuroleptic treatment, occurs earlier and is more frequently fatal than in PD.

Clinical protocol for the management of malignant hyperthermia

Malignant hyperthermia is a hypermetabolic syndrome that appears in susceptible patients after exposure to certain anaesthetic drugs (succinylcholine, inhalation anaesthetics). Its incidence in Spain is 1 in 40,000 adults, with a 10% mortality rate. It is induced by an abnormal regulation of the ryanodine receptors, producing a massive release of calcium from the sarcoplasmic reticulum in the striate muscle. Clinical manifestations include: CO₂ increase, tachycardia, haemodynamic instability, metabolic and respiratory acidosis, profuse sweating, hyperpyrexia, CPK increase, myoglobinuria, kidney failure, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), and ending in cardiac arrest. Dantrolene sodium is a ryanodine receptor antagonist, and inhibits the release of intracellular calcium. Definitive diagnosis is achieved by the exposure of muscle fibres to caffeine and halothane. Protocols can help guarantee a reliable and secure management when this severe event occurs.

A Guide to the Management of Clozapine-Related Tolerability and Safety Concerns

Clozapine is a highly effective antipsychotic medication, which provides a range of significant benefits for patients with schizophrenia, and is the standard of care for treatment-resistant schizophrenia as well as for reducing the risk of suicidal behaviors in schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. However, clozapine is widely underutilized, largely because prescribing clinicians lack experience in prescribing it and managing its adverse events (AEs). Clozapine is associated with 3 uncommon but immediately dangerous AEs, agranulocytosis, myocarditis/cardiomyopathy, and seizures, as well as AEs that may become dangerous if neglected, including weight gain, metabolic syndrome and constipation, and others that are annoying or distressing such as sedation, nighttime enuresis and hypersalivation. Because of the risk of agranulocytosis, clozapine formulations are available only through restricted distribution via a patient registry, with mandatory, systematized monitoring for absolute neutrophil count using a specific algorithm. We identified articles on managing clozapine-associated AEs by searching PubMed using appropriate keywords and search techniques for each topic. A review of the prevalence and clinical characteristics of clozapine-associated AEs shows that these risks can be managed efficiently and effectively. The absolute risks for both agranulocytosis and myocarditis/cardiomyopathy are low, diminish after the first 6 months, and are further reduced with appropriate monitoring. Weight gain/metabolic disorders and constipation, which develop more gradually, can be mitigated with regular monitoring and timely interventions. Sedation, hypersalivation, and enuresis are common but manageable with ameliorative measures and/or medications.

Overlapping of Serotonin Syndrome with Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome due to Linezolid-Fluoxetine and Olanzapine-Metoclopramide Interactions: A Case Report of Two Serious Adverse Drug Effects Caused by Medication Reconciliation Failure on Hospital Admission

Antipsychotic and antidepressant are often used in combination for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. The concomitant use of antipsychotic and/or antidepressant with drugs that may interact can lead to rare, life-threatening conditions such as serotonin syndrome and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. We describe a patient who has a history of taking two offending drugs that interact with drugs given during the course of hospital treatment which leads to the development of serotonin syndrome overlapped with neuroleptic malignant syndrome. The physician should be aware that both NMS and SS can appear as overlapping syndrome especially when patients use a combination of both antidepressants and antipsychotics.

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

Objective: To review evidence for the treatment of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) and to discuss how to rechallenge patients with neuroleptics when continued pharmacotherapy for chronic psychological illness is required. Data Sources: A PubMed search was conducted through March 2016 using available medical subject heading (MeSH) terms and keywords that included neuroleptic malignant syndrome, treatment, dantrolene, and bromocriptine. A manual search of article reference sections followed. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Case reports and case series in English that discussed NMS and atypical NMS treatment as well as neuroleptic rechallenge were included for review. Data Synthesis: The reported incidence of NMS was 0.02% to 0.03%, with a mortality rate of 5.6%. Current literature on NMS is primarily retrospective and emphasizes diagnostic criteria, causative agents, and potential pharmacotherapy. Details regarding timing of administration, dose, and duration of pharmacotherapy are inconsistently reported. Reported dosing strategies and outcomes have been summarized. Instances of rechallenge were infrequently reported but demonstrate that recurrence may happen at any time after NMS resolution. Recommendations regarding safe rechallenge are provided. Conclusion: NMS is a rare adverse drug reaction, with a complex pathophysiology and presentation. Timely diagnosis and discontinuation of antipsychotic therapy is the first-line treatment, followed by supportive care and pharmacotherapy. Antipsychotic rechallenge is often required and should be attempted only after a drug-free period and with a different agent, slowly titrated with close monitoring.

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Associated with Lithium Toxicity

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) is an idiosyncratic and potentially life-threatening reaction to neuroleptic drugs. Lithium is a first-line mood stabilizer used in the treatment and prophylaxis of bipolar disorder. There are several case reports of lithium-associated NMS, but only when it was given in combination with antipsychotics. Therefore, the possibility of NMS being secondary to the antipsychotics could not be ruled out in those cases. Here we present a case of lithium-induced NMS in a patient who was not being treated concomitantly with any other agent known to cause NMS. The patient, a 74-year-old female with a 30-year history of bipolar affective disorder, was admitted to the emergency room of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, with history of high fever and generalized weakness for 10 days before the admission. NMS was established based the presence of three cardinal symptoms. She was started on intravenous fluids to correct her sodium levels slowly and requested to follow-up at the psychiatry clinic.

An update of safety of clinically used atypical antipsychotics

INTRODUCTION

The atypical antipsychotic (APs) drugs have become the most widely used agents to treat a variety of psychoses because of their superiority with regard to safety and tolerability profile compared to conventional/'typical' APs.

AREAS COVERED

We aimed at providing a synthesis of most current evidence about the safety and tolerability profile of the most clinically used atypical APs so far marketed. Qualitative synthesis followed an electronic search made inquiring of the following databases: MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Library from inception until January 2016, combining free terms and MESH headings for the topics of psychiatric disorders and all atypical APs as following: ((safety OR adverse events OR side effects) AND (aripiprazole OR asenapine OR quetiapine OR olanzapine OR risperidone OR paliperidone OR ziprasidone OR lurasidone OR clozapine OR amisulpride OR iloperidone)).

EXPERT OPINION

A critical issue in the treatment with atypical APs is represented by their metabolic side effect profile (e.g. weight gain, lipid and glycaemic imbalance, risk of diabetes mellitus and diabetic ketoacidosis) which may limit their use in particular clinical samples. Electrolyte imbalance, ECG abnormalities and cardiovascular adverse effects may recommend a careful baseline and periodic assessments.

5-HT2C receptors in psychiatric disorders: A review

5-HT2Rs have a different genomic organization from other 5-HT2Rs. 5HT2CR undergoes post-transcriptional pre-mRNA editing generating diversity among RNA transcripts. Selective post-transcriptional editing could be involved in the pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders through impairment in G-protein interactions. Moreover, it may influence the therapeutic response to agents such as atypical antipsychotic drugs. Additionally, 5-HT2CR exhibits alternative splicing. Central serotonergic and dopaminergic systems interact to modulate normal and abnormal behaviors. Thus, 5HT2CR plays a crucial role in psychiatric disorders. 5HT2CR could be a relevant pharmacological target in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. The development of drugs that specifically target 5-HT2C receptors will allow for better understanding of their involvement in the pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders including schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression. Among therapeutic means currently available, most drugs used to treat highly morbid psychiatric diseases interact at least partly with 5-HT2CRs. Pharmacologically, 5HT2CRs, have the ability to generate differentially distinct response signal transduction pathways depending on the type of 5HT2CR agonist. Although this receptor property has been clearly demonstrated, in vitro, the eventual beneficial impact of this property opens new perspectives in the development of agonists that could activate signal transduction pathways leading to better therapeutic efficiency with fewer adverse effects.

Atypical neuroleptic malignant syndrome in patients treated with aripiprazole and clozapine: a case-series study and short review

OBJECTIVES

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) requires emergency treatment and can be fatal. Combined aripiprazole and clozapine therapy is rarely used in clinical settings, and NMS related this combination still lacks evaluation. Herein, we present two cases of atypical NMS treated with aripiprazole and clozapine.

METHODS

Case 1 was a schizophrenic male with a history of NMS under treatment with aripiprazole 20 mg. He was hospitalized and maintained with aripiprazole 5 mg and clozapine 225 mg. On the 25th day, atypical NMS occurred with rigidity, elevated creatine kinase, and stupor, which subsided with supportive therapy. He was discharged under treatment with aripiprazole 15 mg and fluoxetine 60 mg. Case 2 was a female with schizoaffective disorder without a history of NMS. She was hospitalized and maintained with clozapine 50 mg and aripirazole 30 mg. On the 11th day, atypical NMS occurred with mild fever, delirium, and rigidity, which subsided under supportive therapy.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Our cases highlight the atypical features of NMS in patients being treated with combined ari-piprazole and clozapine. Consciousness change, modest elevation of creatine kinase, and leukocytosis were the most consistent findings; hyperthermia accounts for only some of the cases. This is a reminder of the importance of earlier detection of the soft signs and atypical features of NMS under this combined treatment.

Second-generation antipsychotics and neuroleptic malignant syndrome: systematic review and case report analysis

BACKGROUND

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare, severe, idiosyncratic adverse reaction to antipsychotics. Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) were originally assumed to be free from the risk of causing NMS, however several cases of NMS induced by SGAs (SGA-NMS) have been reported.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to systematically review available studies and case reports on SGA-NMS and compare the presentation of NMS induced by different SGAs.

DATA SOURCES

Citations were retrieved from PubMed up to November 2013, and from reference lists of relevant citations.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Eligibility criteria included (a) primary studies reporting data on NMS, with at least 50 % of the sample receiving SGAs; or (b) case reports and case reviews reporting on NMS induced by SGA monotherapy, excluding those due to antipsychotic withdrawal.

STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS

A standardized method for data extraction and coding was developed for the analysis of eligible case reports.

RESULTS

Six primary studies and 186 individual cases of NMS induced by SGAs were included. Primary studies suggest that SGA-NMS is characterized by lower incidence, lower clinical severity, and less frequent lethal outcome than NMS induced by first-generation antipsychotics. Systematic analysis of case reports suggests that even the most recently marketed antipsychotics are not free from the risk of inducing NMS. Furthermore, clozapine-, aripiprazole- and amisulpride-induced NMS can present with atypical features more frequently than other SGA-NMS, i.e. displaying less intense extrapyramidal symptoms or high fever.

LIMITATIONS

Case reports report non-systematic data, therefore analyses may be subject to bias.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS OF KEY FINDINGS

Clinicians should be aware that NMS is virtually associated with all antipsychotics, including those most recently marketed. Although apparently less severe than NMS induced by older antipsychotics, SGA-NMS still represent a relevant clinical issue.

Psychotropic drug-associated electrocardiographic presentation of diffuse J-waves in hypothermia: case report and literature review

The use of psychotropic drugs is often associated with electrocardiographic (ECG) QT-interval prolongation, but there are few reports of J-waves. This report describes the case of a schizophrenic patient under treatment with several psychotropic drugs (olanzapine, valproate, and flunitrazepam), in whom ECG J-waves diffusely appeared during a hypothermic episode. We further performed a literature review of psychotropic drug-related J-waves in hypothermia. The present case highlights the importance of recognizing psychotropic drug-related ECG J-waves on an early warning sign to ensure appropriate monitoring and/or treatment for possible life-threatening side effects of such medications.

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome in a patient on long-term olanzapine treatment at a stable dose: Successful treatment with dantrolene

BACKGROUND

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare life-threatening disorder resulting from treatment with neuroleptic agents and other drugs that act as dopamine antagonists. NMS most often occurs shortly after the initiation, dose increase or withdrawal of the offending agent, but can rarely occur after long-term treatment at stable doses. Immediate discontinuation of the causative agent (or re-administration if the cause is the withdrawal of neuroleptic therapy) along with supportive therapy to maintain cardiorespiratory stability and to reduce fever are the cornerstone of the management of NMS. Additional 'specific' treatments include dantrolene, bromocriptine and amantadine, but their role in the management of NMS is controversial.

CASE STUDY

This study reports the case of NMS associated with long-term treatment with olanzapine at a stable dose. Administration of dantrolene was well-tolerated and resulted in prompt resolution of NMS symptoms.

Retrospective chart review on exposure to psychotropic medications associated with neuroleptic malignant syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) and levels of antipsychotic exposure.

METHOD

Electronic health record data systematically screened from a large mental health service provider in southeast London provided 67 NMS cases which were individually matched with 254 controls on age, gender, and primary psychiatric diagnosis. Data on psychotropic agents, combinations, dose, and dose change of antipsychotic prescriptions over the preceding 5 (oral agents) or 15 days (depot agents) were extracted and compared between groups using conditional logistic regression models.

RESULTS

NMS was associated with higher number of antipsychotic agents used, use of first-generation agents or aripiprazole, use of first-generation agents only or cross-generation agents, and higher mean and maximum daily doses. In further analyses, associations with antipsychotics type remained significant when adjusted for dose, but those with dose were attenuated following adjustment for type. The specific use of haloperidol, aripiprazole, depot flupentixol, and benzodiazepines was independently associated with NMS. Non-white ethnicity was also found to be associated with NMS.

CONCLUSION

NMS was primarily associated with type of antipsychotic and polypharmacy rather than overall dose. Variation in risk by ethnicity requires further research.