Shaking of the hands (medically labelled as tremor) is a common side effect of antidepressants and of Lithium.  The problem is worsened in cases where people take both medications simultaneously.  Many people find the symptom socially embarrassing, and the shaking/tremor is actually worse when we are slightly nervous, such as mixing socially, especially when we feel people are watching us.

 

PROPANALOL (Inderal) is an effective agent at stopping tremor, regardless of the cause of the tremor.  This medication is normally used to lower blood pressure, or to slow your heart rate.  For most people taking Propanalol to stop tremor, low doses are usually effective, such as 10 mg three times per day. Some people need up to 40mg three times a day. Each dose lasts about 4 hours.  Some people take the medication only before they are going to be in a social situation.  The medication rarely causes any significant drop in blood pressure, if used in low dose.  People who are prone to Asthma will probably be advised not to take this medication, as it can interfere with breathing in such people.

 

PRIMIDONE (Mysoline) is an agent which very few doctors realise is actually dramatically effective in stopping tremor.  It is normally used to prevent convulsions, in people who are suffering from Epilepsy.  However, it is relatively rarely used, being an older agent.  Primidone needs to be taken at night only, and will stop tremor all the next day!  However, it is an intensely sedating agent, so you may find you have to take only a quarter of a tablet at night initially, until you see how much it affects you in terms of sleeping and tiredness the next day.

 

Important Disclaimer:  This site is medical information only, and is not to be taken as diagnosis, advice or treatment, which can only be decided by your own doctor.