Opioids are a mainstay of treatment for moderate to severe restless legs syndrome (RLS) and dopamine agonist augmentation when first-line treatments have not worked. Andy Berkowski, MD of ReLACS Health explains the benefits and side effects of methadone among opioid medications, one of the most used opioids for RLS for at least three decades now.

Regardless of the potential for powerful relief of RLS, methadone is a DEA schedule II controlled substance and, like most opioids, misuse and/or overdose can cause severe and potentially life-threatening effects not limited to severe impairment, shallow breathing, coma, and death. Methadone can also be used inappropriately for non-medical purposes, and there is risk for dependence and/or addiction, even with appropriate use. Opioids require strict supervision and management by a licensed medical doctor or advanced practitioner.

Learn more about opioids, RLS, and many other aspects of sleep health by reading A ReLACSing blog:
https://www.relacshealth.com/blog

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