Yet sometimes, these medications can cause a rebound phenomenon called augmentation, in which the symptoms become worse.
What is an augmentation in RLS and how can it be addressed?
Augmentation most often occurs within six months of starting treatment or as medication doses are increased.
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Even if it is not present initially, it may develop later in the course of therapy.
It often occurs with the use of levodopa.
In fact, studies show that more than half of all people who experience augmentation were taking levodopa.
Fortunately, there is little evidence that medications that enhanceGABAare associated with augmentation.
These prescription medicines may similarly be used with intractable RLS symptoms that are not responding well to prior treatment.
In some cases, a worsening of RLS may be the underlying cause of increased symptoms.
This may require changes in the overall medication regimen or the occasional use of medications for breakthrough symptoms.
The medication you are using may be worsening your symptoms.
The more you take, the worse your symptoms will become.
It may be necessary to decrease your medication dose, discontinue it entirely, or consider alternative treatments.
It is sometimes possible to revisit the use of the drug after taking a break.
This informed conversation will allow the right decisions to be made to ensure improvement in your condition.
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Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation.Managing Augmentation.
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Erratum in:Medicine (Baltimore).
2016;95(6):e4526.
2016;21:1-11. doi:10.1016/j.sleep.2016.01.017
American Academy of Family Physicians: familydoctor.org.Restless Legs Syndrome.
