Oral iron therapy for pediatric restless legs syndrome: An evidence-based review

Lucas, Ana; Leite, Gisela; Correia, João

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.16/3770

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Authors

Lucas, Ana

Leite, Gisela

Correia, João

Abstract(s)

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a sensorimotor neurological disorder that affects sleep and has a significant impact on mood, behavior, cognition, and function. Genetics, the brain dopamine system, and iron deficiency are known to play important roles in its pathophysiology. The aim of this study was to review the current evidence on the effectiveness of oral iron supplementation in the treatment of pediatric RLS. A total of six publications were included: one guideline and five observational studies. Although there is limited evidence to draw definitive conclusions about the effectiveness of oral iron in the treatment of pediatric RLS, initiation of oral iron at a dose of 3−8.5 mg/kg/day for 12 weeks when ferritin levels are below 50 ng/dL appears to be beneficial. Given the small number of studies on this topic and their limitations, B-level SORT strength of recommendation was assigned.