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 vitamin B6 was less effective than magnesium in RLS patients, it also improved symptom scores when compared to placebo. Only two trials in the study tested the use of valerian, a medicinal herb, and their results were “contradictory.
” These two trials were the only studies addressing the efficacy of valerian in reducing the symptoms of RLS that the researchers were able to find. This was a small study with limitations, the researchers concede, and more work is needed to determine the most effective non-pharmaceutical treatments for RLS. They write, “There is a need for more high-quality randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes and long-term studies to establish the true efficacy and safety of dietary supplements in managing RLS.
” Find other natural approaches to treat, prevent, and manage RLS and improve sleep quality in The Epoch Times Essential Guide to Restless Legs Syndrome..
