[Pharmacological Treatment for Restless Legs Syndrome]

Brain Nerve. 2023 May;75(5):557-560. doi: 10.11477/mf.1416202378.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder that causes insomnia and daytime functional disability due to an urge to move the legs usually accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. Non-pharmacologic treatment includes regular sleep habits and exercise. Iron supplementation is indicated for patients with low serum ferritin levels. Antidepressants, antihistaminergics, and dopamine antagonists should be reduced or discontinued because they induce RLS symptoms. Dopamine agonists and alpha 2-delta ligands are the first-line pharmacological treatments for RLS.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Dopamine Agonists / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Restless Legs Syndrome* / diagnosis
  • Restless Legs Syndrome* / drug therapy
  • Sleep

Substances

  • Dopamine Agonists