What are the Different Types of Restless Leg Syndrome Drugs?

Restless leg syndrome (RLS), a disorder characterized by odd leg sensations and the irresistible urge to move one’s legs, can be treated or controlled by several different types of drugs. While there are few, if any, restless leg syndrome drugs available specifically for the condition, there are several medications that are used for other medical issues that have been found effective in treating RLS. Medications used for Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, certain high blood pressure medications and pain medications have helped many people control their RLS. In many cases, sleep aids are prescribed along with these restless leg syndrome drugs to help combat the insomnia typically associated with RLS.

Researchers have found that lowering or raising the amount of dopamine in a person’s brain can help ease the irresistible urge to move the legs. Medications used for Parkinson’s disease may be the most effective in doing this. Ropinirole and pramipexole, for example, help in moderate to severe cases of RLS by lowering the amount of dopamine produced by the brain. A combination of cardidopa and levodopa help to raise dopamine levels in the brain. While some trial and error is necessary in finding out whether a patient needs dopamine raised or lowered, these restless leg syndrome drugs have helped many reduce RLS symptoms.

Medications used for epilepsy, specifically gabapentin, can help relieve the pain that is sometimes associated with RLS as well as diminish the urge to move the legs. This drug works by regulating the dopamine levels in the brain and is especially useful for older patients suffering from RLS. Symptoms of this syndrome typically increase with age, and medications can stop working after a period as the body adjusts to them. Of all the restless leg syndrome drugs available, gabapentin has been shown to be effective for the longest amount of time.

The high blood pressure medication clonidine works as a restless leg syndrome drug by stimulating the alpha2 receptors in the brain stem. This increase in alpha2 reduces the effectiveness of nerve cells that control muscle movement and sensations, thereby minimizing the odd sensations felt in the legs. When combined with acetaminophen, opioids such as codeine oxycodone and hydrocodone have also been shown to relax the muscles enough to cut down on involuntary movements. Painkillers are usually the last resort in RLS treatment due to the high addictiveness of opioids, however.

Most of these restless leg syndrome drugs are typically combined with a sleep aid to help patients get a good night’s rest. The most common medications prescribed included zolpidem and eszopidone. Treating RLS can be tricky, and medications will usually change over the course of a lifetime in order to account for the body’s adjustment to restless leg syndrome drugs.