USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) Step 1 Practice Exam

Which medication is typically used to treat essential tremor?

1. Propranolol

2. Aspirin

3. Acetaminophen

4. Amoxicillin

The correct answer is: Propranolol

Propranolol is commonly used to treat essential tremor, a neurological condition characterized by involuntary shaking, most often affecting the hands but can also involve other body parts. Propranolol, a non-selective beta-adrenergic blocker, is effective in reducing the intensity of tremors by modulating the activity of the central nervous system. It works particularly well for postural and action tremors, which are hallmark symptoms of essential tremor. The other medications listed do not serve this purpose. Aspirin is an anti-inflammatory medication primarily used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation, and it is not effective for managing tremors. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer but offers no symptomatic relief for tremor disorders. Amoxicillin, an antibiotic, is used to treat bacterial infections and has no role in the treatment of essential tremor. Thus, propranolol is the appropriate choice for alleviating the symptoms associated with essential tremor.