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—has been touted as an effective treatment. However, research hasn’t been able to confirm those claims.

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

This article discusses the research on magnesium as a treatment for RLS and other treatment options to consider.

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral that supports various body functions, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, maintaining a normal heart rhythm, and regulating blood pressure. It also aids in bone development and moves calcium and potassium through cells.

Anecdotal reports and some older studies suggested that magnesium might help relax leg muscles and reduce RLS symptoms. However, recent evidence is limited and results are mixed.

For example, one study found that pregnant individuals with RLS had lower blood magnesium levels than those without the condition. Conversely, another study found higher magnesium levels in people with RLS.

Overall, a 2019 review concluded that there isn’t enough evidence to support magnesium as an effective treatment for RLS.

Research is ongoing. A 2022 trial involving 75 people with RLS found that those taking magnesium or vitamin B6 reported better sleep quality and less severe RLS after a month.

Other Treatment Options for RLS

While magnesium isn’t a proven treatment for RLS, several other therapies are available. Iron supplementation is common, alongside medications and non-medication options.

Iron

Iron replacement therapy is used for RLS. Iron levels should be checked early in the morning before eating. If levels are low, iron replacement is recommended. Even some people with normal iron levels might benefit from supplementation.

Most people take iron as ferrous sulfate. Taking it with vitamin C, such as orange juice, may enhance absorption. Avoid taking calcium supplements or consuming large amounts of dairy at the same time.

Symptoms of RLS usually improve gradually with iron supplements, potentially taking several months for full relief.

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