6 Years of RLS
Hi all I am 79 and have tried most things to stop my RLS which at times was very violent. My doctor prescribed Gabapentin last year but I was reluctant to take it because of the large list of side effects, last Monday it was a case of having had little sleep! I gave in and tried a low dose, after 2 days my RLS has stopped. It's early days but I am hopeful, it may not work for everyone?
Hello, I'm now taking pregabalin for my RLS.
I also have insomnia. I also take mental health medication. Everything I took for MH would make my RLS worse. If we tried something for sleep also, my legs would go crazy at night.
I came to the conclusion with research that I have a paradoxical effect. Medications that's supposed to help me sleep works the opposite. Even benadryl. So taking the pregabalin is working, I sleep and the RL have just about completely stopped.
I've also learned that a person with RLS needs a higher iron level. About 100 I believe. I'm having my iron/ferritin levels checked to see if this is part of it.
Just my 2 centsI read that about a person suffering rls needs a much higher dose of iron than one who doesnt have rls. I dont think my GP knows this, I had a blood test very recently for that purpose, result was it came back normal, but thats ok for the person that doesnt have rls but we do so we need a very much higher iron level, but when your doctor doesnt realize that its like hitting a brick wall.
They did give me gabapentin which did help but the weight gain was hard to live with, and eventually it began not working even at a higher doseage.Hi
. Do you see a neurologist for your RLS or a general practictioner? If you are seeing a GP, it might be worthwhile to find a neurologist who specializes in sleep issues. That doctor might be more familiar with nutrients, the chemicals in the brain and how they all come together to impact RLS. In the meantime, here's an artcle about treatments that I thought you might find helpful: https://restlesslegssyndrome.sleep-disorders.net/treatment. Best wishes. - Lori (Team Member)
Hi Lori I got "8 hours" sleep some light some deep last night!!! the doctor has advised I take just enough to keep my RLS under control, so 1 in the morning 1 in the afternoon a 2 about 20.30, this may change so I am in charge of my dosage 😀
Kindest Regards,
John.Wonderful! Though Gabapentin usually doesn't have side effects after the first week or so, do be careful if ever you decide to stop. Stopping abruptly can lead to seizures. It's best to taper under your doctor's supervision. Sleep well! - Lori (Team Member)
Hi
. I am thrilled for you that Gabapentin has helped! It doesn't work for everyone, but it's always worth a try. Sometimes, it can be effective in combination with other medications. I hope it continues to be effective for you and that you experience no serious side effects. Thanks for sharing what helps. Warmly, Lori (Team Member)
