The first thing a patient must do in treating Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), is talk with a physician and determine whether related conditions (such as iron deficiency anemia, diabetes, arthritis, or the use of anti-depressant medications) are a contributing factor to the symprons and movements.

Some home remedies are effective in treating symptoms of RLS. Some of these remedies include: a hot bath, leg massage, applied heat, ice packs, pain relievers, exercise and eliminating caffeine.

When home remedies are not effective, RLS can be treated with prescription medication. Until recently, there were no FDA-approved drugs for the treatment of RLS. In May 2005, a drug called Requip® (ropinirole hydrochloride) that is commonly used to treat Parkinson disease was given FDA approval at lower doses for the treatment of moderate-to-severe primary RLS after patients in clinical trials enjoyed more and better quality sleep as early as one week after starting treatment. In 2006, a drug by the name of Mirapex® was also approved by the FDA for the treatment of moderate-to-severe primary RLS. In clinical trials of Mirapex® it was shown that lower doses (than used for Parkinson's disease) improve RLS symptoms, sleep satisfaction, and quality of life.

In addition to Requip® and Mirapex®, there are several drugs approved for other conditions that have been shown to alleviate RLS symptoms. They are:

• Dopaminergic agonists -- reduce RLS symptoms
  
• Dopaminergic agents -- reduce RLS symptoms
  
• Benzodiazepines -- allow for a more restful sleep
  
• Opiates -- induce relaxation and diminish pain