The other thread was getting a bit long (thanks, everyone, for all the response!) and I wanted to make sure anyone that was interested didn't miss the info. Anyway, here's the response I got from the RLS Doctor in California:
"Methadone is a serious drug that should typically be tried after failing the other classes of RLS drugs. However, when needed and appropriately used, it is one of the most effective of all the RLS drugs and is most often very well tolerated. The dose should be kept as low as possible and most people do well with doses up to 10-20 mg/day or more. However, this drug should be monitored closely by the prescribing doctor.
It does not rot your teeth (that is clearly an old wives’ tale). It may worsen central sleep apnea but not typically the more common obstructive sleep apnea problem. Although it may decrease libido, that is actually a more uncommon side effect (and with RLS controlled, your libido may actually increase). The most common side effect is constipation (which can be easily treated with MiraLax). Tolerance/dependence (“addiction”) should not occur if dosed correctly (and if patients with a previous history of drug abuse are excluded)."
So, with that being said, I think I'll give it a try (once my wife signs off on it). I'll definitely let you all know how it's going after a few days.
Which therapy helped you the most?
Sleep apnea?
Medscape article on RLS
For those taking methadone, do you think it affects your sleep quality?
Most effective medications for suppressing Periodic Limb Movements of Sleep (PLMS)
