Article
Evidence-Based Guideline Update: Treatment of Essential Tremor
Neurology
(2011)
Abstract
Background: This evidence-based guideline is an update of the 2005 American Academy of Neurology practice parameter on the treatment of essential tremor (ET).
Methods: A literature review using MEDLINE, EMBASE, Science Citation Index, and CINAHL was performed to identify clinical trials in patients with ET published between 2004 and April 2010.
Results and Recommendations: Conclusions and recommendations for the use of propranolol, primidone (Level A, established as effective); alprazolam, atenolol, gabapentin (monotherapy), sotalol, topiramate (Level B, probably effective); nadolol, nimodipine, clonazepam, botulinum toxin A, deep brain stimulation, thalamotomy (Level C, possibly effective); and gamma knife thalamotomy (Level U, insufficient evidence) are unchanged from the previous guideline. Changes to conclusions and recommendations from the previous guideline include the following: 1) levetiracetam and 3,4-diaminopyridine probably do not reduce limb tremor in ET and should not be considered (Level B); 2) flunarizine possibly has no effect in treating limb tremor in ET and may not be considered (Level C); and 3) there is insufficient evidence to support or refute the use of pregabalin, zonisamide, or clozapine as treatment for ET (Level U).
Keywords
- Essential tremor,
- Evidence-based,
- Guideline update,
- Treatment
Disciplines
Publication Date
October 19, 2011
DOI
10.1212/WNL.0b013e318236f0fd
Citation Information
Theresa A. Zesiewicz, Rodger J. Elble, E. D. Louis, Gary S. Gronseth, et al.. "Evidence-Based Guideline Update: Treatment of Essential Tremor" Neurology Vol. 77 Iss. 19 (2011) p. 1752 - 1755 ISSN: 1526-632X Available at: http://works.bepress.com/kelly_sullivan/24/