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Periodic Limb Movement Disorder Medications
Medications
Therapy does not cure PLMD but relieves symptoms. Note that many of the
medications used to treat PLMD are the same as those used to treat restless
legs syndrome.
- Benzodiazepines: These drugs suppress muscle contractions. They are also
sedatives and help you sleep through the movements. Clonazepam (Klonopin), in
particular, has been shown to reduce the total number of periodic limb
movements per hour. It is probably the most widely used drug to treat
PLMD.
- Dopaminergic agents: These drugs increased the levels of an important
neurotransmitter (brain chemical) called dopamine, which is important in
regulating muscle movements. These medications seem to improve the condition in
some people but not in others. Widely used examples are a levodopa/carbidopa
combination (Sinemet) and pergolide (Permax).
- Anticonvulsant agents: These medications reduce muscle contractions in some
people. The most widely used anticonvulsant in PLMD is gabapentin
(Neurontin).
- GABA agonists: These agents inhibit release of certain neurotransmitters that stimulate muscle contractions. The result is relaxation of contractions. The most widely used of these agents in PLMD is baclofen (Lioresal).
WebMD Medical Reference from eMedicineHealth
Sleep Disorders Guide
TOPAMAX is approved for migraine prevention in adults only.
TOPAMAX is not used to stop a migraine after it starts.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Serious risks associated with TOPAMAX include lowered bicarbonate levels in the blood resulting in an increase in the acidity of the blood (metabolic acidosis). Symptoms could include hyperventilation (rapid, deep breathing), tiredness, loss of appetite, irregular heartbeat or changes in the level of alertness. Call your doctor immediately if you get these symptoms. Your doctor may want to do simple blood tests. Chronic, untreated metabolic acidosis may increase the risk for kidney stones or bone disease.
Other serious risks include decreased sweating, increased body temperature, kidney stones, sleepiness, dizziness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and increased eye pressure (glaucoma). Call your doctor immediately if you have any decrease in vision or eye pain. These problems can lead to blindness if not treated right away.
More common side effects are tingling in arms and legs, loss of appetite, tiredness, nausea, diarrhea, taste change and weight loss.
Tell your doctor about other medications you take. Please see full U.S. Prescribing Information.
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