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 • ICU and emergency department management pearls This quick comparison episode is designed to help physicians, nurses, pharmacists, trainees, respiratory therapists, and critical care learners rapidly differentiate these two dangerous syndromes in clinical practice. 🎥 YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oUl80DoHZB0 📚 Download the study guide + access our complete emergency critical care curriculum: https://www.patreon.com/c/WhiteBoardMedicine Our Patreon includes: • PDF study guides for every episode • Emergency critical care mini-courses • Practice questions • Ad-free content • A structured ICU curriculum 🎧 WhiteBoard Medicine Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whiteboard-medicine-emergency-and-critical-care/id1808306430 DISCLAIMER: This content is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Clinical decisions should always be made using independent medical judgment, current guidelines, institutional protocols, and consultation with appropriate specialists. This content does not establish a physician-patient relationship and may not reflect the views of any affiliated institutions or employers.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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