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Effect of ethanol on the central oscillator in essential tremor
Author(s) -
Zeuner Kirsten E.,
Molloy Fiona M.,
Shoge Richard O.,
Goldstein Susanne R.,
Wesley Robert,
Hallett Mark
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
movement disorders
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.352
H-Index - 198
eISSN - 1531-8257
pISSN - 0885-3185
DOI - 10.1002/mds.10553
Subject(s) - diazepam , anesthesia , ingestion , medicine , reflex , forearm , crossover study , electromyography , physical medicine and rehabilitation , surgery , alternative medicine , pathology , placebo
We investigated the effects of ethanol and diazepam on the central, mechanical, and mechanical reflex components of tremor in patients with essential tremor (ET). A double‐blind crossover study (ethanol or diazepam) was conducted on 2 separate days. Dose of ethanol or diazepam was calculated in each individual according to height, weight, and age in 10 patients with ET. The postural tremor amplitude at the wrist was recorded using a three‐dimensional accelerometer placed on the dorsum of the hand. Electromyogram (EMG) was recorded with surface electrodes placed on the forearm extensors and flexors. To separate central and mechanical (reflex) components, a 500‐g weight was placed on the dorsum of the hand during a second tremor measurement. Tremor recordings were done at baseline and 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes after drug ingestion. Ethanol and diazepam blood levels were measured at baseline and after 20, 40, 80, and 120 minutes. Blood ethanol and diazepam levels were highest after 40 and 80 minutes. The amplitude of the central component 60 minutes after ingestion of ethanol was decreased significantly ( P = 0.029) compared with diazepam. Our findings suggest that the improvement in tremor after ethanol ingestion was due, at least in part, to an effect on a central oscillator. © 2003 Movement Disorder Society