Background and objectives: Many patients on dialysis have a restless legs syndrome (RLS). Drugs may cause as well as relieve RLS symptoms. It was the aim of this study to examine the effect of the prescribed drugs on the occurrence of RLS in patients on hemodialysis.
Patients and methods: The cohort consisted of 82 out-patients undergoing dialysis (38 men and 44 women; mean age 65,4 [21 - 93] years) during 2002 and 2003. In addition to blood analysis the criteria of RLS were analysed, using the Johns Hopkins restless legs severity scale (JHRLSS) and the diagnostic criteria of the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group (IRLSSG). Periodic limb movements in sleep (PLMS) were measures by a special device.
Results: 25 of 82 patients had RLS symptoms, using the JHRLSS, in 23 this was confirmed by the IRLSSG criteria. PLMS occurred in 46 of 81 patients. The occurrence of RLS correlated significantly with the intake of drugs that could potentially increase RLS severity. But there was no strong correlation with drugs that could potentially decrease it. There was no association between medication and the occurrence of PLMS. There was also no correlation with laboratory parameters.
Conclusion: In patients on dialysis those drugs which can potentially worsen RLS should be prescribed with care.