Psychopharmacology mnemonic

Features of neuroleptic malignant syndrome

The mnemonic

FEVER

What each word stands for

  • FFever
  • EEncephalopathy
  • VVitals unstable (autonomic instability)
  • EElevated creatine kinase
  • RRigidity (lead-pipe)

Why it matters clinically

Stop the antipsychotic; give supportive care, with dantrolene or bromocriptine in severe cases.

Where it stops being reliable

Does not separate NMS from serotonin syndrome; look for clonus and onset speed.

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

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Psychopharmacology mnemonic?

FEVER. It helps you recall: Features of neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

What does "F" stand for?

Fever

What does "E" stand for?

Elevated creatine kinase

What does "V" stand for?

Vitals unstable (autonomic instability)

What are all the parts of the FEVER mnemonic?

F: Fever; E: Encephalopathy; V: Vitals unstable (autonomic instability); E: Elevated creatine kinase; R: Rigidity (lead-pipe).

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Psychopharmacology in Psychiatry.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Does not separate NMS from serotonin syndrome; look for clonus and onset speed.

How is this useful clinically?

Stop the antipsychotic; give supportive care, with dantrolene or bromocriptine in severe cases.

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 Psychiatry question about Psychopharmacology.

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.