olanzapine and Essential-Tremor

In this study, we evaluated the anti-tremor effect of olanzapine in patients with essential tremor (ET).. Thirty-eight patients with ET affecting upper limbs underwent a randomized, crossover study with olanzapine (20 mg/day) and propranolol (120 mg/day). Evaluation (baseline and 1 month after each drug) was done by using the tremor clinical rating scale and a self-reported disability scale.. We did not find statistical difference in all tremor parameters before treatment in two groups. Both drugs improved essential tremor parameters. However, olanzapine significantly improved all tremor parameters except hygiene as compared to propronalol.. These results suggest that olanzapine might be efficacious for essential tremor. Further clinical trials are indicated to establish the efficacy of olanzapine in patients with ET.

Topics: Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Benzodiazepines; Cross-Over Studies; Double-Blind Method; Essential Tremor; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Olanzapine; Propranolol; Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors; Treatment Outcome

We investigated the anti-tremor effect of olanzapine, a novel atypical antidopaminergic drug, in 37 patients with essential tremor (ET) in an open-label and prospective study by clinical scoring and patient self-evaluation. Olanzapine monotherapy appears to be efficacious for the treatment of ET. Further clinical trials with control groups are indicated to establish the efficacy of olanzapine in patients with ET.

Topics: Aged; Benzodiazepines; Chi-Square Distribution; Essential Tremor; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Olanzapine; Pirenzepine; Prospective Studies