A rare case of prochlorperazine-induced neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare yet severe condition typically associated with antipsychotic medications. Here, we present a case of NMS induced by prochlorperazine in a 76-year-old male with multiple comorbidities, aiming to delineate its clinical manifestation, diagnostic complexities, and treatment approaches. Our methodology involved a thorough documentation of the patient's medical history, initial symptoms, physical examination findings, laboratory results, diagnostic processes, and subsequent therapeutic interventions. The patient exhibited classic NMS symptoms, including fever, altered mental status, autonomic dysregulation, and generalized rigidity, consistent with diagnostic criteria. Notably, laboratory investigations failed to reveal the typical abnormalities often seen in NMS cases, highlighting the diverse presentation of this syndrome. Management strategies primarily focused on benzodiazepines and amantadine, leading to a gradual improvement in symptoms and eventual resolution of NMS. This underscores the critical role of early recognition and appropriate pharmacotherapy in managing prochlorperazine-induced NMS, even at standard dosage levels. The absence of characteristic laboratory findings in NMS poses challenges in diagnosis, necessitating a comprehensive clinical assessment for accurate identification. Moreover, this case emphasizes the need for further research to better understand the pathophysiology of prochlorperazine-induced NMS and optimize treatment protocols. In conclusion, our case report sheds light on the complexities surrounding NMS induced by prochlorperazine, emphasizing the importance of vigilant monitoring and tailored therapeutic strategies in mitigating its potentially life-threatening consequences.