Posted by Mr Benjamin on August 15, 2012, at 6:20:16
Low Dopamine levels are implicated in Restless Leg Syndrome.
Both antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine) and SSRI's are often listed as worsening symptoms of RLS by sufferers.
SSRIs were developed from drugs similar to diphenhydramine.
It seems to follow that the similarities between the two types of drug make it unsurprising that both may cause similar reactions in RLS.
However, SSRI's are sometimes thought to exacerbate Parkinsons or at least cause temporary symptoms while diphenhydramine is sometimes used to treat Parkinson's in the early stages due to the anticholinergic properties which help 'balance' dopamine.
As a layman I find this very confusing. I'd be grateful for answers particularly in terms of dopamine function.
poster:Mr Benjamin
thread:1023327
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/neuro/20110604/msgs/1023327.html