title: Ropinirole treatment for restless legs syndrome.
abstract: In this paper we discuss therapy with ropinirole (known as adartrel in the United Kingdom) in patients with restless legs syndrome. Restless legs syndrome is characterized by an urge to move the legs, uncomfortable sensations in the legs and worsening of these symptoms during rest with at least temporary relief brought on by activity. Current recommendations suggest dopaminergic therapy (levodopa or dopamine receptor agonists like ropinirole) as the first-line treatment for restless legs syndrome. Based on the results of randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trials, we conclude that ropinirole is effective in reducing symptoms of restless legs syndrome in the general population. Ropinirole has no serious or common side effects that would limit its use significantly. Rebound and augmentation problems are relatively rarely seen with ropinirole, although properly designed comparative trials are still needed to address this question. It must be noted, however, that most published studies with ropinirole compare this drug with placebo. Very few studies have compared ropinirole with other drugs (L-dopa, gabapentin, opioids, benzodiazepines, other dopaminergic agents and selegiline hydrochloride). No cost-effectiveness trial has been published yet. Treatment of restless legs syndrome with ropinirole shows it to be effective, well-tolerated and safe and it can be used in restless legs syndrome in general.
authors.affiliation: 1st Department of Internal Medicine, Fresenius Medical Care Dialysis Center, Institute of Behavioral Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
authors.forename: Miklos Zsolt
authors.initials: MZ
authors.lastname: Molnar
authors.forename: Katalin
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Fornadi
authors.forename: Colin M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Shapiro
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D018491:Dopamine Agonists / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007211:Indoles / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012148:Restless Legs Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000503:physiopathology
chemical_list: D018491:Dopamine Agonists; D007211:Indoles; C046649:ropinirole