[Sleep and sleep disorders in the elderly: Part 3: Restless legs syndrome]

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a commonly occurring condition with a prevalence of approximately 10%. Women are more often affected than men. There is a primary and a secondary form. Secondary RLS is triggered by iron deficiency, severe renal insufficiency and many drugs and medications. The treatment for RLS is always symptomatic. In addition to treating associated diseases, dopaminergic therapy is paramount. Pharmacotherapy encompasses levodopa (L-dopa) and dopamine agonists, such as pramipexole, ropinirole and rotigotine. A serious complication of dopaminergic therapy is the so-called augmentation. In the case of insufficient efficacy, severe discomfort or augmentation, oxycodone/naloxone is now approved for the treatment of RLS.