http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/restless_legs/detail_restless_legs.htm#3237_5

Common drugs prescribed to treat RLS include: Dopaminergic agents (drugs that increase dopamine), largely used to treat Parkinson's disease, have been shown to reduce symptoms of RLS and PLMS when they are taken at bedtime and are considered the initial treatment of choice. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved ropinirole, pramipexole, and rotigotine to treat moderate to severe RLS. Both drugs are generally well tolerated but can cause nausea, dizziness, or other side effects. Good short-term results of treatment with levodopa plus carbidopa have been reported. Although dopamine-related medications are effective in managing RLS, long-term use can lead to worsening of the symptoms in many individuals. This apparent progressive worsening is referred to as “augmentation.” With chronic use, a person may begin to experience symptoms earlier in the evening than in the afternoon until finally the symptoms are present around the clock. The initial evening or bedtime dose becomes less effective, the symptoms at night become more intense, and symptoms begin to affect the arms or trunk. Fortunately, this apparent progression is reversible by removing the person from all dopamine-related medications. Another important adverse effect of dopamine medications that occurs in some people is the development of impulsive or obsessive behaviors such as obsessive gambling or shopping. Should they occur, these behaviors can be reversed by stopping the medication. The FDA has approved gabapentin enacarbil, which metabolizes in the body to become gabapentin, for the treatment of moderate to severe RLS.

Thank you ... I shall mention this to my general doctor as well as to a neurologist! I have been on several RLS new drug studies but each new drug seemed to have side effects that I didn't like- but L-dopa has never had any I was aware of. Taking additional magnesium with the L-dopa as suggested by my regular doctor last year hasn't had any noticeable effect so far.

Very annoying disorder that seems to be inherited as my Mother had it but we had no idea what it was back then. I am sure now that my 'growing pains' as a youngster must have been the beginning of RLS!