Restless legs syndrome induced by fexofenadine/pseudoephedrine

J Gen Fam Med. 2020 Jun 15;21(6):256-257. doi: 10.1002/jgf2.338. eCollection 2020 Nov.

Abstract

Antihistamines are known risk factors for restless legs syndrome (RLS). However, reports on RLS associated with fexofenadine or its combinations are rare. Here, we report a 30-year-old woman with RLS that was induced by fexofenadine/pseudoephedrine. She had been taking fexofenadine/pseudoephedrine for three months and felt a strong urge to move her legs at night, which was relieved by movement. Her condition improved by taking pramipexole, which she discontinued subsequently because of dizziness. One month later, she quitted taking fexofenadine/pseudoephedrine, after which her symptoms disappeared a week later. This case study demonstrates that RLS can be induced by fexofenadine/pseudoephedrine and we should always consider the possibility of drug-induced RLS.

Keywords: antihistamine; fexofenadine; pseudoephedrine; restless legs syndrome; sleep disorder.

Publication types

  • Case Reports