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| Etiology of RLS |
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a neurologic movement disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs. The urge to move the legs is often worse in the evening when the person is trying to relax or fall asleep. [1] This disorder affects approximately 10% of adult Americans in it's mild, moderate, and severe forms. [2,3]
Although the pathophysiology of RLS is largely unknown, neuropharmacological evidence suggests primary dopaminergic system involvement. Positron emission tomographic (PET) studies suggest that a mild striatal presynaptic dopaminergic dysfunction may be involved in the pathogenesis of RLS. |
Primary RLS:
- Is most common among middle-aged or older patients
- May be hereditary, and is seen among relatives of patients with RLS, in 60% of cases
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Secondary RLS:
Symptoms that develop as a result of other underlying conditions are known as secondary Restless Legs Syndrome. It is important to rule out secondary Restless Legs Syndrome, which may be associated with a number of conditions, including [1]:
- Iron deficiency
- Pregnancy
- End-stage renal disease (ESRD)
- Various polyneuropathies
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Requip is indicated for patients with moderate-to-severe primary RLS.
Requip has been associated with sedating effects, including somnolence, and the possibility of falling asleep while engaged in activities of daily living, including operation of a motor vehicle. Syncope or symptomatic hypotension may occur, particularly during initial treatment or dose titration. Impulse control symptoms, including pathological gambling and hypersexuality, have been reported in patients treated with dopaminergic agents, including ropinirole.
For More Safety Information about Requip, click here.
Complete Prescribing Information for Requip® (ropinirole HCl) Tablets
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