Restless Leg Syndrome Treatment

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is an uncomfortable sensation in the legs that occurs while a person is sitting or lying down. Individuals affected by this condition feel the need to get up and move around in order to alleviate the sensation. This condition may interfere with sleep. Signs and symptoms include leg twitching at night, including involuntary flexing and extension of the legs while sleeping. Twitching or kicking movements may occur hundreds of times throughout the night, and in more severe cases may also occur during waking hours. Symptoms tend to be experienced more commonly at night, and insomnia can result. Although the cause of RSL is unknown, it may be caused by an imbalance of dopamine in the brain.

Medications used to treat Parkinson’s disease, such as pramipexole (Mirapex) and ropinirole (Requip), have an effect on the level of dopamine in the brain, and can lead to a decrease in leg movement. Opioid type drugs such as Percocet (aetaminophen and oxycodone) and Vicodin (hydrocodone and acetaminophen) may alleviate symptoms, however carry an addictive potential at higher doses. Benzodiazepines are a type of medication that help to improve nighttime sleeping, however do not affect the leg movements.