[Neuroleptic associated hypothermia: a new case report and study of spontaneous reports to the French pharmacovigilance network]

Introduction: Neuroleptics are the main antipsychotic agents used in psychiatric or medicine departments. The occurrence of hyperthermia, particularly in the context of the neuroleptic malignant syndrome, is a well-known side effect of these treatments. Conversely, the occurrence of hypothermia is less known from clinicians.

Case report: We reported a 72-year-old woman, who presented with hypothermia associated with treatment with neuroleptics. This patient had no other medical comorbidities. Because of persistent hypothermia, altered consciousness and bradycardia, exhaustive diagnostic work-up as well as a prolonged hospitalization were necessary. The results of a review of the national French pharmacovigilance database showed that nearly a quarter (153/614) of drug-related hypothermia are attributed to psychotropic drug, mainly neuroleptics (99/153).

Conclusion: A better awareness of hypothermia associated to neuroleptics should facilitate early diagnosis and reporting this side effect of neuroleptics.