#275 Toxicology Deep Dive: Serotonin Syndrome and Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) Explained

WhiteBoard Medicine - Emergency And Critical Care · Jun 8, 2026 · 1h 14m

Serotonin syndrome and neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) are two life-threatening toxicologic emergencies that every emergency medicine physician, intensivist, hospitalist, nurse, pharmacist, and trainee should recognize early. In this toxicology deep dive, we review: • Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) • Serotonin syndrome • Key clinical differences • Pathophysiology • Causative medications • Hyperthermia • Clonus vs rigidity • Hyperreflexia • Autonomic instability • Elevated CK and rhabdomyolysis • Differential diagnosis • ICU and emergency department management • Supportive care…