Expert opinion on drug metabolism & toxicology
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Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol · Oct 2012
ReviewADMET considerations for restless leg syndrome drug treatments.
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common neurological disorder that might impair nocturnal rest causing decreased alertness, depressed mood, reduced job performance, and poor quality of life. In patients affected by severe RLS, a pharmacological treatment is mandatory. ⋯ Clinical trials have showed that non-ergolic dopamine agonists are efficacious and safe for patients affected by moderate to severe idiopathic RLS. However, no head-to-head study has compared the long-term effects of the three dopamine agonists approved by the FDA for RLS (ropinirole, pramipexole, and rotigotine). Moreover, further studies should investigate the extended-release formulation of ropinirole and pramipexole in RLS patients affected by all day long distressing symptoms. A standardized treatment for symptomatic forms of RLS is lacking. Randomized, placebo-controlled trials should be performed at least in RLS patients with peripheral neuropathic and chronic kidney disease. Concerning RLS due to iron deficiency, a head-to-head study comparing efficacy, safety and compliance of oral iron versus intravenous one seems to be needed.