Which medication is known to reduce tremor amplitude by 60% to 70%?

Prepare for the ANCC Family Nurse Practitioner Test. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations to succeed. Ace your exam!

Primidone is a medication that is effectively used to reduce tremor amplitude significantly, achieving reductions of approximately 60% to 70%. This medication is particularly beneficial in managing essential tremors. Its action primarily involves central nervous system (CNS) effects, where it modifies the activity of neurons within the brain responsible for regulating motor function. Primidone is considered effective not only in reducing tremors but also in alleviating related symptoms that may accompany conditions like essential tremor.

While propranolol, atenolol, and metoprolol are all beta-blockers, they are generally known to provide varying degrees of tremor control, particularly in cases of essential tremor; however, their effects tend to be less pronounced compared to primidone. Propranolol is often the first-line treatment among beta-blockers, but it typically results in a reduction of tremor amplitude that, while beneficial, may not reach the same levels of effectiveness seen with primidone.

The mechanism of action for primidone being more effective relates to its dual action—acting as both a barbiturate and a CNS depressant—which allows for a greater impact on the neurological pathways involved in tremor production. Therefore, the significant reduction in tremors

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