An uncommon adverse effect of levodopa withdrawal in a patient taking antipsychotic medication: neuroleptic malignant-like syndrome.

A patient with symptoms suggestive of neuroleptic malignant syndrome after levodopa withdrawal is described. The patient presented with persistent high fever, stupor, autonomic dysfunction, rigidity, and rhabdomyolysis. He was successfully treated with intravenous dantrolene, resumption of levodopa, and forced alkaline diuresis. Doctors should be aware of the risk of abrupt cessation of dopamine agonists.