For mild cases of Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), practicing good sleep hygiene may be key.

Although there is no cure for RLS, the goal of medical therapy is to control the symptoms and allow the person a restful night’s sleep. If there is another underlying cause, such as an iron deficiency, your doctor may recommend therapy or medication to treat the underlying condition.

If the symptoms progress or if the conservative (self-care)  options don’t help, there are some prescription medications that may help.

Currently, only two medications – ropinirole and pramipexole – have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifically for the treatment of RLS.

In addition, your doctor has several other options that can help manage the symptoms and allow better sleep: 

• Pain medications, such as methadone, can help reduce pain and increase relaxation. 
• Sleep aids, called benzodiazepines, can help control mild symptoms. 
• Anticonvulsants, such as carbamazepine and gabapentin, can help decrease the uncomfortable leg sensation symptoms.

Many medications for the treatment of RLS carry significant side effects, including the risk of dependency. Talk to your doctor about your concerns.

Your physician has a wide range of therapies to work from and may recommend different dosages or combinations of these medications that best work for you. Over time, a medication may lose its effectiveness for a particular patient, and must be adjusted.