Neuroleptic intoxications

Neuroleptic use in both childhood and adolescence is increasing, and the toxic exposures by these drugs are not negligible. In several cases neuroleptic intoxications are due to therapeutic errors or to accidental ingestion of parent medications by children. Other toxic exposures are the result of suicidal attempts, essentially in adolescents. We have reviewed the neuroleptic intoxications in children and adolescents, including the toxic exposures registered in the Spanish Poison Control Centre (SPCC). Antipsychotic compounds, mechanisms of action, kinetics, clinical manifestations of acute intoxications and therapeutic measures are also described.