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Dopamine Agonists to Treat Restless Legs Syndrome

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By Editorial Team

1 min read

Reviewed by: HU Medical Review Board | Last reviewed: May 2025 | Last updated: June 2025

Dopamine agonists are no longer recommended for the treatment of restless legs syndrome (RLS) due to the risk of augmentation.1

What is augmentation?

Augmentation is a serious side effect common to dopamine agonists. Augmentation is when RLS symptoms get worse instead of improving when the person is taking higher doses of the medicine. The drugs may work for shorter periods of time, or the symptoms may begin earlier in the day or spread to the arms.1,2

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These symptoms are often worse than the original symptoms before drug treatment. Between 50 and 70 percent of people who take these drugs eventually experience augmentation within 10 years.1,2

This is the main reason why dopamine agonists have fallen out of favor and are no longer the first-line recommendation for RLS. Not everyone experiences augmentation. If you are currently taking one of these medications for RLS, do not stop taking them without talking to your doctor. They may continue this medicine if it is working well for you, or they may ask you to consider taking a different medicine.1

Things to know about dopamine agonists

Withdrawal symptoms can occur if a dopamine agonist is stopped too quickly.2

These drugs may also be prescribed for Parkinson’s disease, though at much higher doses than for RLS.1

Before beginning treatment for RLS, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. This includes over-the-counter drugs, especially antihistamines and sleeping pills.

Treatment results and side effects can vary from person to person. This treatment information is not meant to replace professional medical advice. Talk to your doctor about what to expect before starting and while taking any treatment.