#273 Serotonin Syndrome vs Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Explained - Quick Comparison

WhiteBoard Medicine - Emergency And Critical Care · Jun 4, 2026 · 13m

Serotonin syndrome and neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) are two life-threatening toxicologic emergencies that can appear very similar at the bedside — but recognizing the key differences is critical for emergency department and ICU management. In this episode, we focus on the high-yield differences between serotonin syndrome and neuroleptic malignant syndrome including: • Clonus vs rigidity • Hyperreflexia • Medication triggers • Serotonergic medications vs dopamine blockade • Onset timing • Hyperthermia • Autonomic instability • Elevated CK and rhabdomyolysis • Neuromuscular findings •…