J Sleep Med.  2024 Apr;21(1):1-5. 10.13078/jsm.230030.

Dopamine Agonists in the Treatment of Restless Legs Syndrome: Too Much of a Good Thing?

• Bugnicourt JM

• KMID: 2554917
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.13078/jsm.230030

Abstract

Restless legs syndrome is a prevalent sensorimotor sleep disorder that worsens the quality of life. Dopamine agonists are widely used to relieve the symptoms of restless legs syndrome, even though these patients are in a “hyperdopaminergic” state. This treatment paradox inevitably leads to augmentation syndrome. Here, we review the pathophysiological basis of this deterioration in patients treated with dopamine agonists. Other treatment options are required with a focus on the neuromodulation of dopaminergic or non-dopaminergic pathways.