Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

Psychiatric medications that cause side effects like twitches or tremors impact which area of the brain?

1. Cerebrum

2. Basal ganglia

3. Cerebellum

4. Limbic system

The correct answer is: Basal ganglia

Psychiatric medications that lead to side effects such as twitches or tremors are primarily affecting the basal ganglia. The basal ganglia are a group of structures located deep within the brain that play a crucial role in coordinating movement and motor control. These areas are sensitive to the effects of various medications, particularly antipsychotics, which can disrupt the normal functioning of the dopamine pathways. When these medications interfere with dopamine levels in the basal ganglia, it can result in movement disorders such as tardive dyskinesia, akathisia, and other extrapyramidal symptoms that manifest as involuntary movements like twitching or tremors. Understanding this connection helps healthcare professionals manage and anticipate these side effects when prescribing psychiatric medications. The other areas mentioned—cerebrum, cerebellum, and limbic system—play different roles in brain function. While the cerebrum is involved in higher cognitive functions, the cerebellum is responsible for coordination and balance, and the limbic system is associated with emotions and memory. Therefore, they are less directly related to the motor control issues caused by psychiatric medications.