Possible efficacy of alprazolam in restless leg syndrome

Restless leg syndrome is a frequently misdiagnosed and often misunderstood condition contributing to a complaint of insomnia in geriatric patients. Various pharmacologic agents used to treat the condition are often ineffective and have not consistently provided relief for the majority of patients with this condition. Our recent experience with Xanax suggests its possible effectiveness in controlling symptoms of the restless leg syndrome. Further, more controlled double blind studies--especially comparing other benzodiazepines at appropriate dosages--are called for.