The Veterans Administration

[Bloodhound669]

I have been on Pramipexole for quite some time now and it seems not to work as it was. Before my next visit to the doctor, I e-mailed and asked about changing to something different for my RLS. I mentioned Buprenorphine, and other things, to change to if necessary. Here is their reply:

Pramipexole does not cause (breast?) augmentation. Per up to date, it is not on

the listed side effects.

Buprenorphine is not a medication for RLS.

There is not a lot of options for RLS. Benzodiazepines are available; however,

we do not recommend this med due to risk of falls and dependence with use.

I can refer him to neuro if he wants to know his options during his next visit.

[SueJohnson]

Stupid, stupid doctors! Refer him to the Mayo Updated Algorithm on RLS at Https://mayoclinicproceedings.org/a...

[Bloodhound669 in reply to SueJohnson]

I forwarded this information to my doctor. She doesn't know much about RLS as she didn't know what Augmentation is. I have my appointment later in November so I'll see what she has in mind. She also suggested making me a neuro appointment for possible neuropathy. Maybe that's what I need.

[LotteM in reply to Bloodhound669]

If you have the urge to move, it is RLS. And if you have you symptoms manly in the evening and/or night, it is RLS.

Make sure you also read the Mayo Clinic Proceeding yourself, the essentials are well summarised in the boxes if you find it too complicated. And do bring a printed copy of that paper to your appointment, so you can refer to it and/or look at it together to see what applies to you.

[Joolsg]

No words.The doctor is an idiot.

If you have IN WRITING from a 'doctor' that Pramipexole does NOT cause augmentation, please forward the email to the US professional body for doctors. That doctor needs retraining. By all means admit you don't know, but to say Pramipexole does NOT cause augmentation is totally incorrect.

Pramipexole most definitely does cause drug-induced worsening ( augmentation) and rates are 8% per annum cumulatively. By Year 10 80% will have VERY severe RLS and the only solution is to get off it by reducing half a 0.088mg ( 0.125mg) pill every 2 weeks and taking a low dose opioid to reduce the severe withdrawals at each reduction.

Please ask for the referral to the neuro and take a copy of The Mayo Clinic Algorithm for the treatment of RLS and the new American Academy of Sleep Medicine Guidance on RLS - 2024, with you.

[ID158]

Breast augmentation. Wow. Now I've heard everything.

[Bloodhound669 in reply to ID158]

Yeah! Breast augmentation(?) was her question. Laughable if not insensitive.

[Bloodhound669]

This is typical of the V.A., as is with most government agencies. Once you are on the payroll the disinterest in advancement and knowledge takes a back seat to the easy paychecks and security of employment. Pill pusher, as a moniker, comes to mind. But, I may be bitter because of the sleep I miss every night and the unconcern from a healthcare provider.

[Pepper2012]

What dosage of Pramipexole are you currently on?