Restless legs syndrome is characterized by a painful or uncomfortable sensation in the legs, which is ameliorated by moving your legs. The condition could affect your sleep, making you exhausted.
Some people with restless leg syndrome may find relief by changing their lifestyles or diet, but for others, medication may help. Please note that there is no cure for restless legs syndrome, although generic drugs relieve symptoms.
Generic drugs for restless leg syndrome are usually recommended to those who have symptoms at least three nights a week. Remember, drugs used to treat restless leg syndrome do not cure the condition but offer temporary relief. Generic drugs for restless leg syndrome include:
Dopamine Agonists: These are often the first life of treatment used for RLS. These drugs act like dopamine, a neurotransmitter. Drugs include:
- Pramipexole (Generic Mirapex)
- Rotigotine (Generic Neupro)
- Ropinirole (Generic Requip)
Dopaminergic Agents: These drugs increase the section of dopamine in the brain, improving leg sensations in patients with restless leg syndrome. However, the drugs may aggravate the symptoms for some people after daily use. Drugs include:
- Levodopa and Carbidopa (Generic Sinemet)
Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines are a kind of sedatives that usually work by including sleep rather than relieving restless leg syndrome symptoms. Benzodiazepines for restless leg syndrome include:
- Alprazolam (Generic Xanax)
- Clonazepam (Generic Klonopin)
- Temazepam (Generic Restoril)
Opiates: Opiates are most often used to treat pain, but they may also help relieve the symptoms of restless leg syndrome. Hydrocodone is advised to some people.
Anticonvulsants: Anticonvulsants may help relieve the symptoms of restless leg syndrome, as well as nerve pain. Drugs include:
- Gabapentin (Generic Neurontin)
- Gabapentin enacarbil (Generic Horizant)
There are several generic drug options to treat restless legs syndrome; however, they may affect each person differently. Doctors may change medications several times before they find the one that works the best for patients. It is important to check with your doctor about the generic drugs available for the condition. Your doctor will know your condition and medical history and may put you on a suitable drug.
