Fact 12: Necessity of Immediate Intervention
Once Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) is diagnosed, immediate intervention becomes crucial. Due to the potential life-threatening nature of NMS, the failure to intervene promptly may lead to severe complications, including death. Therefore, swift recognition and treatment initiation are the cornerstones of managing NMS.
The first step in managing NMS is the immediate cessation of the causative antipsychotic medication. This step is essential to prevent further progression of the syndrome. However, it’s vital to note that stopping the medication doesn’t guarantee immediate recovery. Symptoms of NMS may persist for several days or even weeks after discontinuation.
Initial management also involves stabilizing the patient’s vital signs. This can involve several measures such as intravenous hydration to address dehydration and cooling measures for hyperthermia. In situations where the patient’s heart rate or blood pressure is unstable, specific pharmacological interventions may be needed.
NMS patients often require intensive supportive care. This can include maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, managing nutritional needs, preventing pressure ulcers due to prolonged immobility, and monitoring for and treating any potential complications. (12)
