Dopamine Agonists in the Treatment of Restless Legs Syndrome:Too Much of a Good Thing?
- Author:
Jean-Marc BUGNICOURT
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:2
- From:Journal of Sleep Medicine 2024;21(1):1-5
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:EN
- Abstract: Restless legs syndrome is a prevalent sensorimotor sleep disorder that worsens the quality of life. Dopamine agonists are widely used to relieve the symptoms of restless legs syndrome, even though these patients are in a “hyperdopaminergic” state. This treatment paradox inevitably leads to augmentation syndrome. Here, we review the pathophysiological basis of this deterioration in patients treated with dopamine agonists. Other treatment options are required with a focus on the neuromodulation of dopaminergic or non-dopaminergic pathways.
