Restless Leg Syndrome Medications

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is characterized by a burning, aching, tingling pain in your legs and an urge to move your legs around when you are lying in bed or otherwise being inactive. You can feel RLS symptoms in your arms as well, though symptoms are most often experienced in your calves and feet. Restless leg syndrome can interrupt normal sleeping habits for some people. There are a variety of medications that are used to treat RLS.

Iron Supplements

• RLS can stem from other medical conditions, including peripheral neuropathy and low iron levels. Speak to your doctor about taking an iron supplement to see if this will help stop your restless leg symptoms.

OTC Pain Relievers

• Mild RLS symptoms may be alleviated with the use of over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers such as ibuprofen.

Sedatives

• Muscle relaxants and sleeping pills that are classified as benzodiazepines are used by RLS sufferers, as reported by the Mayo Clinic (see Resources). These drugs do not relieve the twitching and other symptoms of RLS, but can help you get a better quality of sleep if your normal patterns are interrupted.

Medications for Neurological Disorders

• Drugs that are used to treat seizures and neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease may be prescribed for restless leg syndrome, including Neurontin and Sinemet.

Effectiveness

• Each person with RLS must see which type of drug works for him, as each case is different. Sometimes, a medication that has controlled RLS symptoms for a period of time stops working, and a new therapy must be found.