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Published on: December 13, 2017
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Perampanel: Medical Alternative for Essential Tremor?
Lola Díaz-Feliz1, Cici Feliz-Feliz1, Javier Del Val1
1Movement Disorders Unit, Department of Neurology, Jimenez Diaz Foundation University Hospital, Madrid.
Clinical Neuropharmacology
|January 25, 2023
Summary
Perampanel significantly improved essential tremor (ET) symptoms in a small study. While effective, some patients experienced adverse effects like dizziness and instability, limiting its use.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Essential tremor (ET) is a common neurological disorder.
- Refractory ET significantly impacts quality of life.
- Limited treatment options exist for severe, refractory ET.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of perampanel for treating severe, refractory essential tremor (ET).
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 18 patients with severe refractory ET was treated with perampanel 4 mg/day.
- Assessments included the Fahn-Tolosa-Marín scale for tremor severity.
- Data on tolerance and effectiveness were collected over one month.
Main Results:
- Perampanel demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in ET symptoms (P ≤ 0.0001).
- Some patients experienced notable tremor reduction.
- Adverse effects such as dizziness, ataxia, irritability, and instability were reported by a subset of patients.
Conclusions:
- Perampanel shows a positive antitremor effect in patients with essential tremor.
- It may serve as an alternative treatment option for refractory ET.
- The drug's use is associated with potential adverse effects that require monitoring.
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