New data on lithium and haloperidol incompatibility

Abstract

A case (human) of combined Li and haloperidol toxicity characterized by hyperpyrexia, severe rigidity, mutism and development of irreversible tardive dyskinesia was described. This case is similar to 4 other cases described in the literature and to the neuroleptic malignant syndrome. It was postulated that 2 types of combined Li-neuroleptic toxicity occur: a neuroleptic malignant extrapyramidal syndrome and a Li toxicity that occurs in combination with phenothiazines, primarily thioridazine. Possible mechanisms and preventive measures are discussed.