#### Summary points Restless legs syndrome is common; it is characterised by an urge to move and usually, but not exclusively, affects the legs. This urge to move is typically accompanied by abnormal sensations, variably described as burning, tingling, aching, or “insects crawling under the skin.” These sensations are transiently or partially relieved by movement, and there is a strong circadian influence—symptoms are worse in the evening. It may be idiopathic or secondary to iron deficiency, pregnancy, uraemia, or neurological problems. Estimates of prevalence of the syndrome range from 1.9% to 15%, depending on case ascertainment,1 and it affects all age groups, although prevalence increases with age. Prevalence is about twice as high in women as in men. Restless legs syndrome is a common cause of insomnia related to problems with sleep initiation and sleep maintenance, unrefreshing sleep, and excessive daytime sleepiness, and it may signify an underlying medical condition. Recognition of the condition and appropriate treatment therefore has a large impact on morbidity and quality of life.2 #### Sources and selection criteria We searched Medline, the Cochrane Library, and the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence website with the search term “restless legs syndrome”. We used evidence from published articles and guidelines on the management and treatment of restless legs syndrome by the International Restless Legs …