A 44-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 5-month history of lower extremity discomfort. When trying to fall asleep, she frequently experiences leg discomfort that is temporarily relieved by movement. Her husband tells her that she often flexes her ankles upward while she sleeps. She appears fatigued and anxious. Physical examination shows no abnormalities. Laboratory studies, including a complete blood count and iron studies, are within the reference range. Pharmacotherapy with which of the following mechanisms of action is most likely to relieve this patient's symptoms?

Question

A 44-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 5-month history of lower extremity discomfort.  When trying to fall asleep, she frequently experiences leg discomfort that is temporarily relieved by movement. Her husband tells her that she often flexes her ankles upward while she sleeps. She appears fatigued and anxious. Physical examination shows no abnormalities. Laboratory studies, including a complete blood count and iron studies, are within the reference range. Pharmacotherapy with which of the following mechanisms of action is most likely to relieve this patient's symptoms?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: Restless legs syndrome is characterized by an uncomfortable sensation in the legs accompanied by an urge to move them; symptoms worsen with inactivity and at night and are temporarily relieved with movement.  Dopamine agonists (eg, pramipexole, ropinirole) are the preferred therapy for persistent symptoms.

A 44-Year-Old Woman Comes to the Physician Because of a 5-Month