Alzheimer’s Delirium and Dementia Q 26
Which medication can control the extrapyramidal effects associated with antipsychotic agents?
A. Clorazepate (Tranxene)
B. Amantadine (Symmetrel)
C. Doxepin (Sinequan)
D. Perphenazine (Trilafon)
Correct Answer: B. Amantadine (Symmetrel)
Amantadine is an anticholinergic drug used to relieve drug-induced extrapyramidal adverse effects such as muscle weakness, involuntary muscle movements, pseudoparkinsonism, and tardive dyskinesia. Amantadine is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD; a disorder of the nervous system that causes difficulties with movement, muscle control, and balance) and other similar conditions. It is also used to control movement problems that are a side effect of certain medications used to treat Parkinson’s disease. It also is used to prevent symptoms of influenza A virus infection and for treatment of respiratory infections caused by influenza A virus. Amantadine is in a class of medications called adamantanes. It is thought to work to control movement problems by increasing the amount of dopamine in certain parts of the body. It works against influenza A virus by stopping the spread of the virus in the body.
Option A: Clorazepate is used to relieve anxiety. Clorazepate is also used along with other medications to treat certain types of seizures. It is also used to relieve unpleasant symptoms that may be experienced by people who have stopped drinking alcohol after drinking large amounts for a long time. Clorazepate is in a class of medications called benzodiazepines. It works by decreasing abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
Option C: Doxepin is used to treat depression and anxiety. Doxepin is in a class of medications called tricyclic antidepressants. It works by increasing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain that are needed for mental balance. Doxepin is also available as a tablet to treat insomnia.
Option D: Perphenazine is used to treat the symptoms of schizophrenia (a mental illness that causes disturbed or unusual thinking, loss of interest in life, and strong or inappropriate emotions). Perphenazine is also used to control severe nausea and vomiting in adults. Perphenazine is in a class of medications called conventional antipsychotics. It works by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain.