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Published on: December 13, 2017
Flunarizine and essential tremor in the elderly
I Vecchio1, L Rampello, C Tornali
1Institute of Neurological Sciences, University of Catania, Policlinico, Viale A. Doria 6, I-95125 Catania, Italy.
Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Flunarizine (FZ), a calcium channel blocker, was ineffective for treating moderate to severe essential tremor (ET). In some patients, FZ worsened ET symptoms, suggesting it should not be used for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Flunarizine (FZ) is a selective calcium channel blocker used for migraine and vertigo.
- FZ and cinnarizine (CZ) can induce movement disorders, including orofacial dyskinesia, Parkinsonism, and postural tremor.
- A prior report suggested FZ might improve essential tremor (ET).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of Flunarizine (FZ) in patients with moderate to severe essential tremor (ET).
Main Methods:
- 12 patients with moderate to severe ET participated.
- Treatment involved FZ, starting at 5 mg daily, increased to 10 mg after 10 days, for a total of 8 weeks.
- Tremor and disability in daily activities (dressing, writing, eating, drinking) were assessed.
Main Results:
- Flunarizine (FZ) demonstrated ineffectiveness in treating moderate to severe essential tremor (ET).
- Some patients experienced a worsening of ET symptoms while on FZ treatment.
- No concurrent medications were altered during the study period.
Conclusions:
- Flunarizine (FZ) is not recommended for the treatment of moderate to severe essential tremor (ET).
- The drug may exacerbate ET symptoms, particularly in elderly patients.
- These findings exclude the use of FZ in ET management.
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