The Association between Restless Legs Syndrome and Substance Abuse

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a complex disorder that has treatment options associated with potentially serious side effects. Dopaminergic medications can lead to worsening symptoms and opioid medication carry a risk of addiction and abuse. Multiple studies have shown that RLS symptoms are more prevalent in patients going through opioid withdrawal when compared to the general population, but research is lacking when examining whether or not patients with RLS are more at risk to develop substance abuse. This article examines the known associations between the two disorders