RLS (restless leg syndrome) is a medical condition in which people feel the need to move their legs so that they don't feel any strange sensations. MedlinePlus indicates that these sensations typically occur at night and can last for as long as one hour. People suffering with conditions, such as chronic kidney disease, peripheral neuropathy and iron deficiency are more likely to have RLS. Fortunately, common medications exist for RLS.
Ropinirole
Ropinirole, commonly sold as Requip or Repreve, is a medication that specifically treats RLS and Parkinson's disease symptoms, such as tremors, muscle spasms, stiffness and poor muscle control. It acts like dopamine, a type of brain chemical. Low levels of dopamine lead to RLS symptoms. Drugs.com indicates that some less concerning side effects include constipation, diarrhea, anxiety, agitation, sweating and a dry mouth. More serious side effects include hallucinations, tremors, difficulty breathing, chest tightness and stiff muscles. Sometimes, ropinirole leads to an allergic reaction, signs of which include hives; swelling of the throat, face or tongue, and trouble breathing. Call 911 if ropinirole causes these symptoms. Patients who suffer from mental illness, low or high blood pressure and kidney or liver disease may require a decrease in the dosage of ropinirole. Ropinirole is a tablet taken daily or as indicated.
Pramipexole
Pramipexole, commonly sold as Mirapex, also treats RLS and Parkinson's disease symptoms. MedlinePlus says that pramipexole, like ropinirole, is a dopamine agonist, meaning that it acts like dopamine. Less concerning side effects include diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, weight loss and a poor appetite. Serious effects include shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle weakness and muscle stiffness. Call a doctor if you experience these symptoms. Taking medications, such as quinine, metoclopramide, diltiazem and verapamil, may require a decreased dosage of pramipexole. Pramipexole is a tablet taken three times daily.
Roxicodone
Oxycodone, commonly sold as Roxicodone, OxyContin, Intensol or Percolone, is a pain reliever that helps decrease RLS symptoms. The exact way it does so is not yet clear. Drugs.com says that its less concerning side effects include sweating, dry mouth, itching, constipation and a poor appetite. Serious side effects include a slow heartbeat (bradycardia), confusion, fainting and lightheadness. The dosage of roxicodone may need to be decreased if you also suffer from low blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, mental illness or asthma. Oxycodone is a pill taken daily or as prescribed.
