Does Xanax help with restless leg syndrome? (3+ findings)

In this article, we will discuss whether or not Xanax can help with Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), research findings linking Xanax use and RLS, other factors contributing to RLS, medications that are used to treat RLS, and lifestyle activities that can help relieve RLS.

Does Xanax help with restless leg syndrome?

Yes, Xanax can help in treating the symptoms of insomnia (inability to fall asleep) that accompany restless leg syndrome. It is important to note that Xanax is not primarily used to treat RLS. Anxiety can cause RLS. The RLS symptoms associated with anxiety can be managed with Xanax. (1)

RLS is a prevalent illness that affects 5-15% of people. RLS symptoms can be very severe in a small percentage of cases and significantly affect quality of life and sleep.

Since benzodiazepines are sedatives that can cause you to calm down and sleep, it makes sense that they might help RLS patients. However, they should not be utilized as a first-line therapy, but rather as a co-adjuvant therapy. (2)

What does research suggest?

According to research studies, patients with RLS may benefit from using Xanax to treat their sleep disturbances. A review was conducted on the use of benzodiazepines in treating RLS.

This comprehensive review demonstrates that there is insufficient evidence to either confirm or deny the use of Xanax in treating RLS.

RLS is treated by pharmaceutical medications such as Levodopa (dopamine agonist) which is frequently used in this medical condition, opioids such as codeine and morphine, and anticonvulsants such as gabapentin.

Although the AASMP (American Academy of Sleep Medicine Practice) does not recommend benzodiazepines in treating RLS, they are sometimes used in RLS to enhance sleep quality. However, the hazards associated with sedation prevent the use of Xanax throughout the day and is not recommended as first-line treatment in patients with RLS. (2)

What other factors can contribute to RLS?

According to research, there are several factors that can contribute to RLS, some of which include:

• Genes: RLS is a genetic trait. If a genetic characteristic is passed down from your parents during pregnancy, this can cause an RLS diagnosis.
• Iron deficiency: If the level of iron in your brain is low, this could result in an RLS.
• Underlying health issue: Certain medical conditions such as peripheral nerve diseases (peripheral neuropathy), kidney failure, or Parkinson’s disease can contribute to causing an RLS.
• Drugs or medications: RLS can be brought on by or made worse by some drugs such as anti-histamines like Benadryl, anti-depressants like mirtazapine, and anti-nausea drugs like Bonine. Xanax can interact with anti-histamines (Benadryl) leading to more sedative effects. (3)

It is imperative that your healthcare provider thoroughly evaluates your situation and rules out any potential contributing reasons to your RLS.

What medications are appropriate for treating RLS?

There are certain medications that are used to treat RLS, these medications include:

Dopamine agonists: when treating RLS, they are typically the first medications administered. They are very efficient in treating RLS symptoms such as pain, and itching. Examples include ropinirole, pramipexole, and rotigotine skin patch.

Patients get noticeable symptom reduction a few weeks after beginning treatment. Dopamine agonists function by increasing the amount of dopamine neurotransmitter in the brain. It plays a role in controlling movement and lowering muscular contraction.

Opioids: Opioids such as codeine can lessen the symptoms of RLS in severe pain only due to their high potential for addiction. 

Anti-convulsants: Anti-convulsants such as gabapentin (marketed as Neurontin) are occasionally used to treat severe long-lasting pain or nerve-related pain in RLS. 

Benzodiazepines: They can be used to treat sleep disorders associated with RLS but are only meant to be used temporarily. Examples include zolpidem and zopiclone. (4)

What lifestyle choices can help relieve RLS?

There are several lifestyle choices and activities that can help relieve your RLS, some of which include:

• Steer clear of caffeinated beverages and alcohol.
• Smoking cessation.
• Preserve a consistent sleep schedule.
• Exercise regularly.
• Bath and massage your legs with warm water.
• Use hot or cold ice packs on your legs.
• Apply vibration pads on your calf, or foot bandages or wraps (made specially for patients with RLS). (5)

Conclusion

Based on what I’ve learned and researched, Xanax may be able to aid with the symptoms of insomnia that come along with RLS. It is not advised to use Xanax as a first-line treatment for RLS, nevertheless.

If you take Xanax for RLS, you should be aware of its potential adverse effects. If you encounter any of these symptoms, get in touch with your healthcare provider right away so that your medicine can replaced with more appropriate options for treating RLS. Certain lifestyle activities can also help you treat your RLS.

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