Medication Induced Postural Tremor Treatment in India

Diya Iyer, a 28-year-old software engineer,...

Diya Iyer, a 28-year-old software engineer, had been successfully managing her Generalized Anxiety Disorder for two years with a prescribed SSRI. A recent promotion and project deadline intensified her anxiety, leading her psychiatrist to cautiously add a low-dose antipsychotic (aripiprazole) for augmentation. Within weeks, Diya developed a fine, rhythmic shaking in both hands, most noticeable when she tried to hold her phone steady to text or pour her morning coffee. It was embarrassing and began affecting her precision at work. Her psychiatrist, Dr. Mehta, identified it as a Medication Induced Postural Tremor. He explained the tremor was a known side effect, likely from the new medication, and was reversible. They discussed two paths: reducing the aripiprazole dose, which might lessen the tremor but also its therapeutic benefit, or adding a low dose of propranolol, a beta-blocker, to target the tremor directly. Wanting to maintain her hard-won mental stability, Diya opted to try propranolol. She started the new medication with some anxiety about more side effects. Within a week, the tremor had diminished significantly. After a month, it was barely perceptible. Diya felt a profound relief. The initial tremor had made her feel broken and self-conscious, as if her body was betraying her recovery. Successfully managing the side effect restored her sense of control and partnership with her doctor. She could focus on her career again without the constant worry of shaking hands, feeling empowered that her treatment was both effective and manageable.