Cholinesterase inhibitors: tremor and exacerbation of Parkinson's disease

Abstract

(1) Three cholinesterase inhibitors are marketed in France for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease: donepezil, galantamine and rivastigmine. Tremor and dystonia are known adverse effects of cholinesterase inhibitors. (2) In patients with Parkinson's disease who have cognitive disorders, or in patients with Lewy body dementia, exacerbations of parkinsonism and tremor have been observed during treatment with cholinesterase inhibitors at normal doses. The disorders were reversible on withdrawal of the cholinesterase inhibitor. (3) Withdrawal of cholinesterase inhibitors should be considered if gait disorders, falls or parkinsonism occur or worsen during treatment.