Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and periodic limb movements of sleep.

Serotonin reuptake inhibitors may induce periodic limb movements of sleep in adults. We undertook a retrospective review of polysomnography data of 1,023 children acquired at our institution over 1 year to assess whether children receiving serotonin reuptake inhibitors have a higher risk of periodic limb movements of sleep than children that are not treated with these medications. Periodic limb movements of sleep were found in 13 (31.7%) of 41 children receiving serotonin reuptake inhibitors and in 77 (7.8%) of 982 children not receiving serotonin reuptake inhibitors (odds ratio 5.45). Furthermore, the median periodic limb movement index in patients receiving serotonin reuptake inhibitors was significantly higher than patients not receiving serotonin reuptake inhibitors (11.2 and 6.5 respectively; P < 0.05). Children receiving serotonin reuptake inhibitors are at risk of periodic limb movements of sleep. Appropriate clinical judgment and medical management may result in better control of periodic limb movements of sleep and improved quality of life in these patients.