Gabapentin for the Treatment of Neuroleptic-Induced Tremor

Overview

We will attempt to establish whether gabapentin as compared with placebo will reduce the severity of tremors caused by the use of antipsychotic medications. Baseline severity of tremor will be measured using both clinical ratings and ratings obtained with an instrument designed to measure tremor, giving more objective evidence of tremor frequency and severity.

We propose to enroll 40 veterans with antipsychotic induced tremor in this RCT of gabapentin. Baseline measurements will be obtained with the tremor section of the UPDRS, the Simpson-Angus Scale, the ESRS, AIMS, and the Barnes Akathisia SScale. The Tremorometer, an instrument designed to quantatatively measure frequency, amplitude, and tremor power will be used for baseline and subsequent assessments. Demographic data will be collected. Diagnoses will be established with the SCID. Appropriate lab studies with an EKG will be done at baseline and at study end. Patients will be randomized to gabapentin or placebo and assessed on a blinded basis. Effectiveness of the blind will be assessed at study end. Gabapentin will be started at 300 mg/day and tapered up to a maximum of 1800 mg/day. The SF36 will be used to assess quality of life.

Conditions

Interventions

Eligibility

Locations (1)

Outcomes