Meds that exasperate RLS

[FluteE]

I live in the US and visited the Emergency Room for a severe headache. They gave the the “migraine cocktail” that consists of Toradol, Decadron, Benadryl, and Compazine. I don’t know what was worse... the headache or RLS. I suffered for 2 nights until it was out of my system. From here on out, I will refuse any meds that’s on the no-no list!

Thank you joolsg for posting it a while back. I now keep the snapshot on my phone handy and my family have it too just in case I can’t let a first responder know.

[Sampsie]

Hi Flute, I don't know if this has any additional information, but there's a free medical alert card with items to avoid and suggested alternatives on RLShelp.org, Dr B's webpage. The one above looks really helpful too.

[FluteE in reply to Sampsie]

Thanks for the info! I’ll print the card and put it in my wallet!

[kleelibby]

Hi FluteE, you poor thing it’s miserable waiting for the meds to leave your body.

Was the cocktail in the ER given IV?

I was stung by a wasp last week, the area turned red and puffy and very itchy it was hard not to scratch. I knew I needed a Benadryl but also knew it would kick my legs off for hours. I took it and paid the price.

The list is so helpful I didn’t know about a lot of the drugs. Thanks.

[FluteE in reply to kleelibby]

Yes, I did have the drugs through IV. I could feel each one affect my body as it was pushed in my system😩

I was the same. I was aware of some affecting my RLS... not worth the price in my opinion.

Glad you now have a list. This website is a lifesaver and so are it’s consumers... US and UK!

[kleelibby in reply to FluteE]

My Mom had RLS and my sister and I now have it. Mom carried a card, it was like a medical alert for drugs adversely affecting RLS. She arranged years ago to donate her brain for RLS research. Health care providers don’t always know about RLS and sometimes can’t be bothered. Frustrating.

[Joolsg]

Sorry you had to suffer the RLS. I carry the card with me but I have asked at my hospital what would happen if I suffered a reaction to my monthly infusions for MS. They usually put people on a ready made drip containing lots of the drugs contraindicated for RLS. I have mentioned that I would prefer an alternative but suspect in an emergency they would pay no attention.

It’s reminded me to give them a printed version of this alert card for my files.

Glad it’s of use.

Jools