How is RLS treated?
The primary treatment goal is to reduce symptoms of sleep disturbances and discomfort. In secondary RLS, controlling underlying disorders helps control symptoms. Medical management may include dopamine-receptor agonists, dopamine precursors, benzodiazepines, opioids, and anticonvulsants. Dopamine-receptor agonists are the standard of treatment, and include ropinirole (Requip) and pramipexole (Mirapex). These newer dopaminergics cause fewer adverse effects than the older ones (such as levodopa) and may be more effective for longer periods. However, a recent meta-analysis of their benefits found their long-term use a problem, as with all dopaminergics. Other drugs prescribed for RLS may include clonidine, baclofen, tramadol, and zolpidem tartrate. Few controlled studies have been done to evaluate their efficacy, but many patients report them to be helpful. Nonetheless, treatment may be frustrating, as these drugs may cause adverse effects and eventually lose their efficacy. In some pat
