CNS drugs and antiepileptics mnemonic

Features of serotonin syndrome

The mnemonic

HARMED

What each word stands for

  • HHyperthermia
  • AAutonomic instability
  • RRigidity
  • MMyoclonus
  • EEncephalopathy
  • DDiarrhoea

Why it matters clinically

Identifies a toxic combination, such as SSRIs with MAO inhibitors or tramadol.

Where it stops being reliable

Does not state the cause and not all features appear together.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the CNS drugs and antiepileptics mnemonic?

HARMED. It helps you recall: Features of serotonin syndrome.

What does "H" stand for?

Hyperthermia

What does "A" stand for?

Autonomic instability

What does "R" stand for?

Rigidity

What are all the parts of the HARMED mnemonic?

H: Hyperthermia; A: Autonomic instability; R: Rigidity; M: Myoclonus; E: Encephalopathy; D: Diarrhoea.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to CNS drugs and antiepileptics in Pharmacology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Does not state the cause and not all features appear together.

How is this useful clinically?

Identifies a toxic combination, such as SSRIs with MAO inhibitors or tramadol.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Pharmacology question about CNS drugs and antiepileptics.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.