Sleep Med Psychophysiol.  2018 Jun;25(1):5-8. 10.14401/KASMED.2018.25.1.5.

Updates on the Treatment of Restless Legs Syndrome

• Kang SG

• KMID: 2434580
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.14401/KASMED.2018.25.1.5

Abstract

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a sleep disorder characterized by an urge to move the legs or arms and uncomfortable paresthesia in the legs. Treatment of RLS can be various depending on the causes, severity, and frequency of the symptoms. In the case of secondary RLS, it is important to identify and manage the cause of RLS. Dopamine agonists have been used as firstline treatments for primary RLS treatment. However, due to augmentation, which is a common side effect of dopamine agonists, recent treatment guidelines are changing to prefer to anticonvulsants such as pregabalin and gabapentin. Iron, opioid, or benzodiazepine may be used when anticonvulsants or dopamine agonists are not adequately treated. Because RLS is a chronic disease, it is essential to establish a long-term treatment plan considering both efficacy and side effects.

Keyword

Anticonvulsant; Augmentation; Dopamine agonist; Restless legs syndrome; Treatment

MeSH Terms

Anticonvulsants
Arm
Benzodiazepines
Chronic Disease
Dopamine Agonists
Iron
Leg
Paresthesia
Pregabalin
Restless Legs Syndrome*
Sleep Wake Disorders
Anticonvulsants
Benzodiazepines
Dopamine Agonists
Iron
Pregabalin