Browse Prescribing Notes by Therapeutic Subcategory

Restless legs syndrome (RLS), also known as Ekbom Syndrome, is characterized by a crawling or cramping sensation mainly in the calves that is often associated with sleep disorder. Treatment is first directed toward any underlying conditions, if known.

For more severe cases, dopamine agonists (eg, pramipexole, ropinirole) may be prescribed. The exact mechanism of dopamine agonists in the treatment of RLS is not fully understood. Mild striatal presynaptic dopaminergic dysfunction may be involved in the pathogenesis of RLS.