Disordered sleep from RLS can lead to complications ranging from cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure to anxiety and social isolation. According to the Essential Guide, in those whose symptoms are severe enough to affect their quality of life, daily treatment with low-dose pharmacological is recommended. Benzodiazepines Calcium channel alpha-2-delta ligands (gabapentinoids) Dopaminergic agents (for short-term use only) Ketamine (rarely) Opioids (for severe cases) Iron Magnesium oxide Valerian Vitamin B6 Vitamin C Vitamin D Vitamin E Besides the link between iron deficiency and RLS, the researchers note that some people with RLS have low magnesium and vitamin D levels, which is why these supplements have been tested as treatments.
Low levels of antioxidant vitamins C and E have been implicated in oxidative stress, a potential contributing factor in RLS, while valerian “has been indicated for the treatment of sleep problems related to anxiety or lack of rest.” As to magnesium’s mechanism of action, it can “currently only be speculated upon until reports about a consensus theory emerge,” they wrote. The effects of oral iron supplementation on RLS symptoms were “mixed,” the researchers wrote, “showing some symptom improvements but no significant differences compared to other treatments.
” They believe iron supplementation is “a promising avenue,” however, especially in patients with iron deficiency. In one study included in the review, although vita.