Anticonvulsants for restless legs syndrome

Examples

Generic Name	Brand Name
gabapentin	Neurontin
carbamazepine	Tegretol
valproate	Depakene

How It Works

Anticonvulsants are used to help control or prevent abnormal increases in brain electrical activity. They are primarily used for people who have seizures. They may help suppress electrical activity in the brain that causes restless legs syndrome symptoms.

Why It Is Used

Gabapentin can help people with restless legs syndrome. It is sometimes used when symptoms are severe and can be used in combination with other drugs.

How Well It Works

While anticonvulsants help relieve symptoms in some people, they have no effect on others.

Side Effects

Drowsiness, dizziness, tremors, blurred vision, nausea, and poor coordination have all been reported as occasional side effects when these medications were used as treatment for other conditions. Research is needed to discover whether side effects are different when these drugs are used to treat restless legs syndrome.

People of Asian ancestry may be at a higher risk for skin problems from taking carbamazepine. These skin problems which include Stevens-Johnson syndromeand toxic epidermal necrolysis, can be dangerous. It is recommended that people of Asian background be tested before they take carbemazepine.

Anticonvulsants may increase the risk of suicide and suicidal thoughts. It is not recommended that people stop using these medicines. Instead, people who take anticonvulsant medicine should be watched closely for warning signs of suicide. People who take anticonvulsant medicine and who are worried about this side effect should talk to a doctor.

What To Think About

More study is needed to discover the full range of side effects when these medications are taken for restless legs syndrome.

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Author:	Kathe Gallagher, MSW Cynthia Tank	Last Updated: May 24, 2007
Medical Review:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Karin M. Lindholm, DO - Neurology Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine
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