Is there an alternative to steroids for Restless Leg Syndrome?

Question

A friend has restless leg syndrome (RLS). Recently, she accidentally learned that steroids (methylprednisolone) stops her RLS cold. It even continued for a few weeks after the prescription ran out. It was great. But one can't take steroids forever. Is there a way to get a small dose, some substitute, or even something in the diet that could do the same job (not in that order of priority)? Does anyone have the slightest idea what causes RLS? I'm at the start of this research. Apparently, steroids have been known to help RLS for years, maybe. Any leads would be appreciated.

go broncos!!! · Answer

You need to ask why taking strong anti inflammatory drugs helped to begin with. It sounds like there is inflammation causing the RLS. What other prescription drugs is she on that could cause inflammation. Cholesterol lowering drugs can cause inflammation because cholesterol is a steroidal fat that the liver creates to protect the body from inflammation. As you get older you need more of it in your bloodstream not less. More questions need to be asked to know the direction she needs to take. Chiropractic could also help this, if it is from lower back inflammation messing with the nerves in the legs like sciatica. If I was going to address this through supplementation, Id go with magnesium citrate and chelated trace minerals, and let the body fix any deficiency it might have on its own. google dead doctors don't lie and start reading... hope this helps

? · Answer

I am not a doctor.

Exercise like walking or running or even better swimming might help.

Steroids, even in small doses when taken for a long time can cause serious trouble.

The newer dopamine agonists touted for this sometimes cause compulsive behavior like gambling and might get a person into real trouble. I would not be quick to try medication as a solution.

http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/neurologic_disorders/sleep_and_wakefulness_disorders/periodic_limb_movement_disorder_and_restless_legs_syndrome.html#v1039603

http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/neurologic_disorders/sleep_and_wakefulness_disorders/approach_to_the_patient_with_a_sleep_or_wakefulness_disorder.html#v7528795

jpturboprop · Answer

Many find that alternate day steroids are effective for them, even at low doses.  This is something she might want to discuss with her physician.

Is there an alternative to steroids for Restless Leg Syndrome?

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