Does Pristiq cause restless leg syndrome? (+3 factors)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will discuss whether Prsitiq can cause restless leg syndrome. We will also discuss some research studies and what one should do if this side effect occurs.
Does Pristiq cause restless leg syndrome?
Yes, Pristiq can cause restless leg syndrome. However, this is not a common side effect and the incidence is low.
Restless legs syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. It is more pronounced at night and causes sleep disturbances (1).
The restless leg syndrome on Pristiq is not generally a concern and very few such cases are reported. However, individual responses to medications vary (2).
If a person experiences any unusual symptoms or concerns while taking Pristiq, it is essential to discuss them with their healthcare provider.
How does Pristiq cause restless leg syndrome?
The exact mechanism involved in causing restless legs syndrome due to Pristiq is not fully known. However, studies show a link between RLS and Pristiq.
Prsitiq is an antidepressant which affects certain neurotransmitters (serotonin, norepinephrine) in the brain. This side effect could be caused by the effects of Pristiq and other SNRIs on dopamine which is another excitatory chemical like serotonin and norepinephrine (3).
Studies have also indicated that the incidence of this side effect is relatively low and it may get better with the addition of Bupropion to the treatment regimen. However, the safety, efficacy and appropriate doses are not fully determined.
The occurrence of this side effect can vary from person to person and could be linked to other patient-specific factors.
What factors can influence restless legs syndrome while on Pristiq?
Several factors can influence restless legs syndrome while taking Pristiq. These include:
Individual sensitivity: People react differently to medications. Some individuals may be more prone to experiencing RLS symptoms while taking Pristiq than others. Pristiq might increase underlying neurological conditions related to restless leg syndrome in some individuals.
Dosage and duration: Higher doses or changes in doses can start or increase the RLS symptoms. Use of Pristiq for a long time can also initiate or exacerbate the symptoms of restless legs syndrome.
The dosage of Pristiq might have varying effects on different individuals. Sometimes adjusting the dosage or changing the time of your medication can decrease or increase RLS symptoms.
Drug interactions: Pristiq may interact with other medications or substances you are taking, which can lead to RLS symptoms. Always consult your healthcare provider before combining medication to avoid potential interactions.
Underlying conditions: Some underlying medical conditions such as kidney problems, iron deficiency, diabetes or peripheral neuropathy may make individuals more susceptible to restless legs syndrome while taking Pristiq. Pristiq might interact with these conditions, indirectly affecting RLS symptoms.
What to do if Pristiq causes restless syndrome?
If Pristiq causes RLS, reach out to your healthcare provider. Your doctor will properly examine your condition and determine the most appropriate way to resolve your symptoms.
Your healthcare provider may ask you questions about your sleep patterns, any sensations you experience in your legs, and if your symptoms worsen at night. they may also perform physical examinations and conduct blood tests to rule out other possible causes.
If Pristiq is the main culprit, your doctor may reduce your dosage to see if it works for you. If dose reduction is not helpful they may gradually discontinue your medication or switch to another antidepressant with fewer side effects.
Additionally, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as avoiding caffeine or alcohol before bedtime and incorporating regular exercise.
Some doctors may recommend OTC gels, like Voltaren gel for symptomatic relief. It is important to talk to your doctor about your side effects before you make any changes to your treatment with Pristiq.
Antidepressants should not be stopped abruptly because of the potential withdrawal symptoms upon improper drug discontinuation (4).
In my view and the knowledge available, Pristiq can cause restless legs syndrome in some individuals. However, individual responses to medications vary.
If you experience RLS symptoms while taking Pristiq it is essential to consult your healthcare provider for guidance, evaluation and potential management strategies.
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