Ropinirole in restless leg syndrome.

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a disease of unknown etiology, characterized by paresthesias and an irresistible desire to move the legs. Dopaminergic mechanisms have been implicated in the pathogenesis of this disorder. Dopamine agonists have been used to treat RLS. This paper describes the use of ropinirole, a non-ergoline dopamine agonist, in the treatment of RLS. Polysomnograms after treatment, as well as patient assessment of their symptoms, showed clinical improvement.