RLS HELP

[Shortieems]

Anyone got any advice to sleeping better? RLS is so bad and nothing seems to work!

[Joolsg]

What meds are you currently taking, including OTC meds? Has your doctor done full panel blood tests yet?

[Shortieems in reply to Joolsg]

Hi I'm taking pramipexole and paracetamol and also on venlafaxine for depression. My legs are so bad at night but it is extending to rest of body.

[Joolsg in reply to Shortieems]

Venlafaxine and all anti depressants ( except trazodone & wellbutrin cause or worsen RLS).Your first step would be to see if you could switch to a safe anti depressant.

Then you need to ensure you're not in augmentation- the most common, serious side effect of pramipexole.

It's why most people join this site.

Read the pinned post about augmentation and if you're experiencing worsening RLS, it's moved to earlier in the day, it's affecting other body parts then you have to get off the pramipexole as slowly as possible over a minimum of 3 months.

Ensure serum ferritin is above 250 as that will lessen the augmentation symptoms .

Withdrawal is very tough but most people who go through it find their RLS is so much better once off dopamine agonists.

[UncleFester in reply to Joolsg]

So would you recommend Trazodone or Wellbutrin for sleeping? What about Ambien or Lunesta? Will these be ok while using Gabapentin?

[Joolsg in reply to UncleFester]

They're anti depressants so not prescribed for sleep. For sleeping the occasional zolpidem ( ambien) or diazepam or medical cannabis.

[Mandypop]

I have the same issues I am also on pramipexole however it isn't working. I have had bloods done to check my iron levels as tat can also be linked to it and I am awaiting the results for this. See your doctor and don't let them fob you off

[Reb0013]

I agree with Joolsg' comment; in the meantime as a temporary aid you might try a roll on muscle relaxant called Bio-Freeze (not sure if they sell this where you are - most pharmacies or big retail stores have it, also on Amazon. It helped me tremendously to alleviate some of the restless, creepy crawly sensations.

[Mum007]

I always use magnesium spray. It can be bought from Holland and Barrett or Amazon. I spray it on my arms and legs in the middle of the night when my restless legs and arms start thrashing (Always about 2.30am 🥴). 2 sprays each bottom leg, 2 sprays each top leg, 2 sprays each arm - 12 in total. It nearly always works. However if I put it on when I have no symptoms it doesn’t work as a preventative. I take magnesium tablets every day for migraines but they don’t help my rls. Worth a try?