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Drug-induced tremor - Overview

Alternative Names

Tremor - drug-induced

Definition of Drug-induced tremor:

Drug-induced tremor is involuntary shaking due to the use of medication. Involuntary means you shake without trying to do so. The shaking occurs when you move or try to hold your arms, hands, or head in a certain position. It is not associated with other symptoms.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Drug-induced tremors are a simple muscle response to certain medications. Drugs that can cause tremors include the following:

Anticonvulsants such as valproic acid and divalproex sodium (Depakote)
Bronchodilators such as theophylline and albuterol
Immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine
Mood stabilizers such as lithium carbonate
Stimulants such as caffeine

Central nervous system

Reviewed last on: 8/14/2008
Daniel B. Hoch, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital; and Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Jankovic J. Movement disorders. In: Goetz, CG, eds. Textbook of Clinical Neurology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 34.

Lang A. Other movement disorders. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 434.

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