Alternative treatments for RLS.

[Tim61]

Hi mtm19,Tim61,

I posted recently about withdrawing from Pramipexole, which I’m doing at the moment, not very nice.

My GP eventually discovered I was suffering with myoclonic jerks, not restless leg syndrome. I saw him yesterday’ & he has agreed to try keppra ( levetiracetam) 250mg at night. I took the first dose last night & had a better nights sleep, & not so much leg jerking, so I’m hoping this will continue.

I’ve posted because I’ve read this very good article about Keppra being used to help restless leg syndrome, & periodic limb movement in sleep.

Levetiracetam (Keppra) can be effective in the treatment of restless legs syndrome, with periodic limb movements in sleep: report of two cases; G.Delta Marca, C. Vollono & S. Mazza.

I know you guys, know your stuff about restless leg syndrome, & may have read this article, but thought it was worth posting for thoughs who have suffered augmentation from Dopamine antagonist, & are looking at other treatments rather than opioids.

Hi mtm19, I wondered if this may help, try not to get despondent, I’m withdrawing from Pramipexole at the moment, & I’ve spent a lot of the morning in tears, because it seems like I’m going through hell.

Never stop looking for something to help your condition, you may be lucky eventually & find some help.

Have you tried magnesium spray on your legs, this may give alittle relief.

As requested by some members alternative treatments for Rls.

As Said in post I’m actually suffering from myoclonic jerking in my legs, but recently have been massaging them with sweet almond oil, when they’ve been jerking, & finds this gives me more relief than magnesium spray & it’s not so sticky. It gives a nice warm feeling to my legs.

Best wishes Tim61.

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[Joolsg]

Withdrawal from pramipexole and other dopamine agonists causes DAWS. During this time your legs jerk uncontrollably every 5-10 seconds SO I don’t think you have myoclonic jerks- it is leg jerking due to withdrawal.

I’m going to look up the med you’ve been given in my RLS medical text book and I’ll get back to you.

After withdrawal from DAs pregabalin and Gabapentin are often used and for most are very effective.

Jools

[Tim61 in reply to Joolsg]

Hi Joolsg,

Thanks for your concern , it has been happening before I started the pramipexole, it was misdiagnosed in the first place , the Drs have agreed on this!!!

I had a tumour on my spinal cord when I was eight the Drs think it is Neurological connected to this.

I’m due to see a neurologist at Oxford in the New Year I’ll write some little updates.

Your right about pramipexole, it does cause symptoms to worsen for awhile until your body stabilises again.

Best wishes Tim61.

[Joolsg in reply to Tim61]

Hi Tim,

Yes the spinal tumour would cause the jerks and RLS.

The med you are on is an anti convulsant in the same class as pregabalin and Gabapentin so I’m glad it’s helping.

Have a peaceful Christmas

Jools

[Tim61 in reply to Joolsg]

Hi Joolsg,

Again thanks for the concern.

Merry Christmas 🎄 & Happy New Year, to you also. Best wishes Tim61.