Generic Meds for Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a condition in which sufferers experience unusual sensations in the legs, which can only be relieved by movement. Medications for RLS have become widely available in generic form.

Dopamine Agonists

• The most commonly prescribed pharmaceuticals for RLS are in a category known as dopamine agonists. These drugs mimic the effect of the neurotransmitter dopamine. They were originally developed for Parkinson's disease, but have since been approved for RLS. These drugs include ropinerole (brand name Requip) and pramipexole (brand name Mirapex). Both are available as generics.

Carbidopa-Levidopa

• This combination of two Parkinson's medications was originally marketed under the brand name Sinemet, but is now available in generic form. It differs from dopamine agonists in that Levidopa is actually converted into dopamine, rather than mimicking its effects. It is not the first choice medication for the disorder because most users will develop "augmentation," which causes symptoms to appear earlier in the day than usual, and sometimes to become more severe. Still, it's effective for some RLS patients.

Benzodiazepines

• While benzodiazepines like clonazepam (the brand name version is Klonopin) do not fully tackle the symptoms of RLS, they are often prescribed for their ability to provide sufferers with restful sleep.

Opioids

• Opioids induce relaxation and have pain-killing effects. Drugs in this class include oxycodone and propoxyphene.

Anticonvulsants

• For those sufferers whose leg sensations include a "creepy crawly" feeling deep inside the leg muscles, anticonvulsants like gabapentin (brand name Neurontin) can be helpful, since they reduce sensory disturbances.