Common drugs may cause tremors, warns Dr Baibing Chen

In Ann Arbor, Michigan, neurologist Dr. Baibing Chen sees many patients exhibiting hand tremors, who often fear they are suffering from serious neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease. Before reaching a diagnosis, Dr. Chen emphasizes the importance of reviewing the medications these patients are taking. This approach allows him to identify whether certain drugs might be the actual cause of the observed tremors, rather than a neurological issue. Medications such as pseudoephedrine, commonly found in over-the-counter decongestants, can lead to increased nervous system activity, which results in tremors as a side effect. Dr. Chen classifies the drugs linked to tremors into several categories. He highlights that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a common class of antidepressants, are known to induce tremors in some users. The FDA has approved SSRIs like Citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine, and sertraline for treating depression. Along with tremors, these medications may lead to other side effects, including restlessness, sweating, and headaches, impacting the quality of life for these patients. Additionally, Dr. Chen cites typical antipsychotics and mood stabilizers, such as lithium, which frequently induce tremors in patients. He also points out that anxiety can exacerbate the shakiness experienced by those taking lithium. Furthermore, medications prescribed for asthma, including albuterol and salmeterol, have also been linked to tremors; in fact, research indicates that up to 20% of individuals taking these drugs report experiencing this side effect. Lastly, Dr. Chen discusses other classes of medications that can cause tremors, such as anti-seizure drugs, antiarrhythmic medications, and steroids. Stimulants, which are frequently used to treat ADHD and certain sleep disorders, are also common triggers of tremors. Consequently, Dr. Chen's thorough evaluation involves investigating the patient's medication history, which is crucial in differentiating between medication-induced symptoms and potential neurological disorders.