The Comorbidity of Migraine and Restless Legs Syndrome

Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep. 2019 Jul 27;19(9):60. doi: 10.1007/s11910-019-0977-0.

Abstract

Purpose of review: The purpose of this review is to discuss migraine and RLS diseases and explain the comorbidity of migraine and RLS and possible mechanisms leading to this comorbidity in the light of recent studies.

Recent findings: Many clinical and epidemiological studies and recent meta-analyses of these studies have revealed a higher prevalence of RLS in patients with migraine compared to individuals without migraine. There is an association between RLS and migraine in terms of some action mechanisms, especially the dopaminergic system, and some symptoms. They are associated concerning burden and economic cost. It will be extremely useful to take this situation into account in order to choose the appropriate drug for both, reduce the side effects of the drugs, increase patient satisfaction, and decrease the cost of treatment.

Keywords: Comorbidity; Dopamine; Migraine; RLS; Restless legs syndrome.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Comorbidity
  • Dopamine Agents / therapeutic use
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions / epidemiology
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions / metabolism
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Migraine Disorders / drug therapy
  • Migraine Disorders / epidemiology*
  • Migraine Disorders / metabolism*
  • Prevalence
  • Restless Legs Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Restless Legs Syndrome / epidemiology*
  • Restless Legs Syndrome / metabolism*

Substances

  • Dopamine Agents