Can medications cause restless leg syndrome?

Medications. A number of medications can make RLS worse. In particular, anti-nausea drugs and sedating antihistamines (like Benadryl) block the brain’s dopamine receptors, causing restless legs symptoms. Antidepressants that increase serotonin and antipsychotic medications can also aggravate the condition.

What medicines trigger restless legs?

The following medications have been known to cause or exacerbate the symptoms of RLS:

• Antidopaminergic medications (eg, neuroleptics)
• Diphenhydramine.
• Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
• Serotonin-norepinepherine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
• Alcohol.
• Caffeine.
• Lithium.

Can too much melatonin cause restless leg syndrome?

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). The tingling or “creepy-crawly” feeling in the legs that often keeps people awake could be worsened by melatonin. The supplement can intensify RLS symptoms because it lowers the amount of dopamine in the brain, according to the Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation.

Is Restless Leg syndrome a side effect of antidepressants?

Evidence from case reports and cross-sectional studies suggests that antidepressants may induce or worsen restless legs syndrome and increase periodic limb movements.

What causes restless leg syndrome to flare up?

“The most common RLS triggers are prescription and over-the-counter medications,” Dr. Buchfuhrer says. Because they block dopamine, the worst culprits include: Over-the-counter antihistamines, cold and allergy medications (Sudafed, Tylenol, Alka-Seltzer, Benadryl)

Can anxiety meds cause restless legs?

Medication considerations While effective for treating symptoms of depression and anxiety, patients who take serotonergic antidepressants, such as SSRIs or SNRIs, are at increased risk for new-onset or worsening RLS.

Can antidepressants make you restless?

Agitation, restlessness or anxiety can result from the stimulating effect of certain antidepressants. Although having more energy can be a good thing, it may mean you can’t relax or sit still even if you want to.