A client is prescribed benztropine. Which statement best reflects the expected onset of tremor improvement?

• A. It may take up to several weeks for tremors to improve.
• B. Anticholinergics block the effect of acetylcholine.
• C. Anticholinergics can cause dry mouth, urinary retention, and constipation.
• D. Increasing fiber and fluid consumption will help with side effects.

Answer: (A)

Benztropine helps control tremor by reducing cholinergic activity in brain circuits that regulate movement, helping to rebalance dopamine and acetylcholine in the basal ganglia. Because this rebalancing involves gradual neuronal adjustments, the tremor response is not immediate and can take time to become noticeable. The statement that tremors may improve only after several weeks best reflects this slower, progressive time course. The other statements describe the drug’s mechanism or common side effects and management, which are true but don’t address how long it takes for tremor improvement to occur.