Does drinking alcohol affect RLS

[Oma67]

I have been on 0.25mg of Pramipexole Dihydrochloride Monohydrate for just over a year now. I mostly had RLS just about an hour after I fell asleep but occasionally it happened when I was sitting down in the evening. I found the medication had been working really well but lately I have been having the symptoms again when I have had a drink or two in the evening. I was wondering if anyone else has that issue? I am a 67 year old women and I have just a sociable drink on the weekends when entertaining..

[Hidden]

Sorry, alcohol isn't a grest idea for somebody with RLS, so it's quite possible that it's this that's causing the breakthrough symptoms.

Try not drinking any alcohol for a while...I'd suggest a week or two.

If during that time you still experiencing the re-emerging symptoms, then perhaps the pramipexole is beginning to lose effect.

If you take any other medications that my be a factor as well.

Let us know how you get on.

[Joolsg]

For the majority of sufferers, alcohol worsens RLS. It doesn’t affect mine nor does sugar.

I suggest you follow Manerva’s advice & avoid alcohol for a week to see if it makes a difference. If not, it could be that the pramipexole has stopped working and you may have to consider alternative meds.

[dklohrey]

There are many triggers for RLS depending on the individual but one constant with almost all RLS sufferers is their difficulty with alcohol. Its best to avoid it.

[Oma67]

Thank you . I will try your suggestions. Good to know that drinking alcohol may cause the symptoms to return again. 😧

[suesweda]

Consuming alcoholic beverages can aggravate RLS symptoms, but the effects shouldn't last more than 24 hours so you can have an occasional cocktail if you're willing to put up with the consequences. Alcohol increases dopamine levels in the brain, which can actually alleviate RLS symptoms temporarily. But as the alcohol leaves your bloodstream, there is a rebound effect that can be problematic. Alcohol can also contribute to nutritional deficiencies that make RLS symptoms worse, so it isn't good to overindulge.

[Oma67 in reply to suesweda]

Thank you for the information. It’s good too know.