Drug-induced restless legs syndrome

Abstract

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a sensorimotor disorder characterized by complaints of a strong desire to move legs during periods of rest or inactivity, which is relieved by movement (most pronounced in the evening or at night). Multiple studies have reported drug-induced RLS caused by antipsychotics, antidepressants and antiepileptic medications. Risk factors for drug-induced RLS include older age, gastrointestinal diseases, high medication dose, simultaneous use of ≥2 drugs. The mechanism of drug-induced RLS is most often associated with the effect of medications on various receptors and neurotransmitter systems, in particular, the dopamine system. Drug-induced RLS treatment includes identification and withdrawal of a drug that caused RLS or a decrease in its dosage. Prevention of drug-induced RLS is based on compliance with the principles of rational pharmacotherapy.