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Updated: May 29, 2026

The Forced Swim Test as a Model of Depressive-like Behavior

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[Restless legs syndrome and depression].

Johannes Rasmussen¹, Poul Videbech

¹Center for Psykiatrisk Forskning, Aarhus Universitetshospital, Risskov, Skovagervej 2, 8240 Risskov, Denmark. johannes.rasmussen@gmail.com

Ugeskrift for Laeger

|September 3, 2011

Summary

Major depression is 2-4 times more likely in people with restless legs syndrome (RLS). Some antidepressants may worsen RLS symptoms, highlighting the need for careful treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Psychiatry
Epidemiology

Context:

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is frequently observed in patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder.
Epidemiological data indicate a significantly higher odds ratio (2-4) for major depression in individuals with RLS compared to controls.

Purpose:

To explore the complex relationship between Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) and major depression.
To review proposed etiological factors linking RLS and depression, including dopamine dysfunction and sleep disturbances.
To assess the current evidence for effective treatment strategies in co-occurring RLS and depression.

Summary:

The comorbidity of RLS and depression is well-documented, with several potential underlying mechanisms proposed.
Shared diagnostic criteria and the adverse effects of antidepressant medications are considered contributing factors.

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Evidence supporting specific treatment strategies for this dual diagnosis remains limited.

Impact:

Highlights the need for increased clinical awareness of RLS in depressed patients and vice versa.
Underscores the potential for certain antidepressants to exacerbate RLS, necessitating cautious prescribing practices.
Emphasizes the requirement for further research to develop evidence-based treatment guidelines for comorbid RLS and depression.