Restless Legs and Magnesium: What’s the Link?

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a neurologic condition that causes unpleasant feelings in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move them. RLS tends to be worse at night and moving can relieve the unwelcomed sensations.

Over the years there have been several treatments used by healthcare providers to relieve RLS. One treatment—magnesium—was thought to be an effective treatment. However, research now shows that there is no evidence to support magnesium supplementation as a treatment for RLS.

There are many other effective treatments for RLS—like medications, iron supplements, and medication-free therapies.

This article discusses how magnesium is not an effective treatment for RLS and other treatment options to consider.

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral in the body that supports many different bodily functions like muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, normal heart rhythm, and blood pressure maintenance. It also helps in bone development and the movement of calcium and potassium through the body's cells.

Older studies suggested magnesium could help the leg muscles relax and reduce RLS symptoms. But more recent studies do not support this theory.

Other Treatment Options for RLS

While magnesium may not be the best treatment option for RLS, there are many other therapies available. Iron supplementation is a common therapy, along with medication and medication-free options.

Iron

Iron replacement is a treatment used for RLS. Iron levels are taken in the early morning before food has been eaten. If iron levels are low then iron replacement is recommended. For some people with normal iron levels, supplementation may still be used as well.

Most people can take an iron pill in the form of ferrous sulfate. Taking the pill with vitamin C, like a glass of orange juice, may help with iron absorption. Make sure to avoid taking a calcium supplement or eating a large amount of dairy at the same time as the iron supplement.

RLS symptoms go away slowly over time with iron supplements. It may take several months to see complete improvement.

Medication

If iron supplements are not successful in treating RLS, medication is another option. Two of the most common medications used are Sinemet (carbidopa-levodopa) and Klonopin (clonazepam).

Sinemet is a medication that is used to treat Parkinson's disease. The levodopa changes to dopamine in the brain and carbidopa allows levodopa to get to the brain without being broken down. It reduces RLS symptoms but can cause something called augmentation. Augmentation is when RLS symptoms get worse after stopping a dopamine medication like Sinemet (carbidopa/levodopa).

With the risk of augmentation, Sinemet can still be a good choice for people who have occasional RLS and do not need daily medication treatment.

Klonopin (clonazepam) is a benzodiazepine that is used to treat RLS. It can cause sleepiness and decreased ability to concentrate. It is given to people who have occasional RLS symptoms.

Medication-Free Treatment

There are several medication-free treatment options for RLS. They tend to work best for people with mild RLS symptoms.

• Distracting activities when at rest
• Regular exercise
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol
• Leg massage
• Yoga
• Acupuncture
• Adequate sleep
• Treatment of other sleep disorders (like obstructive sleep apnea)
• Identify and remove, if possible, any medications that could trigger RLS

Summary

RLS is a condition that causes unpleasant sensations in the legs. It is a common condition, and as many as one in 10 people have experienced RLS.

Current research points away from using magnesium to treat RLS. Studies now show that iron supplementation, medication, or medication-free strategies are effective treatments.

A Word From Verywell

RLS is an uncomfortable neurological condition that can hurt your sleep and rest. Thankfully, there are several treatment options available. If you are experiencing any RLS symptoms relieved by getting out of bed, moving, rubbing your legs, or tossing and turning, it's time to reach out to your healthcare provider to find a treatment plan that will work for you.