%0 Journal Article
%T Restless Leg Syndrome Following Aripiprazole Discontinuation: A Case Report
%A Fawaz Gali
%A Reem Mohammad Saleem
%A Bashayer Al Maazmi
%A Mahmood Ameer Shukur
%A Mohammed Ibrahim
%J Case Reports in Clinical Medicine
%P 176-181
%@ 2325-7083
%D 2025
%I Scientific Research Publishing
%R 10.4236/crcm.2025.143023
%X <b>Background: </b>Aripiprazole is a second-generation antipsychotic known for its partial dopamine D2 agonist properties, which help reduce the risk of extrapyramidal symptoms. While effective and generally well-tolerated, withdrawal symptoms, such as Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) and akathisia, have been observed upon abrupt discontinuation in some patients. <b>Objective:</b> To report a rare case of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) following the discontinuation of aripiprazole in a patient with a history of substance-induced psychosis. <b>Case Description:</b> A 39-year-old male with a history of polysubstance use in sustained remission, presented with RLS-like symptoms shortly after discontinuing aripiprazole, which he had taken consistently for the last 6 years. The symptoms, which included a pinching sensation in his thighs, involuntary leg movements during sleep, and a sense of restlessness, emerged within 2 - 3 days of medication cessation. These symptoms are resolved within an hour of reinitiating aripiprazole. The patient&#8217;s clinical presentation underscores a rare but clinically significant withdrawal phenomenon associated with aripiprazole discontinuation, potentially linked to dopamine dysregulation. <b>Conclusions:</b> This case highlights the importance of recognizing and managing aripiprazole discontinuation symptoms, including RLS. Clinicians should consider a gradual tapering protocol for aripiprazole to minimize withdrawal-related movement disorders and monitor patients for emergent symptoms. Further research is recommended to establish standardized guidelines for managing similar cases.
%K Aripiprazole Withdrawal
%K Restless Legs Syndrome
%K Akathisia
%K Dopamine Dysregulation
%U http://www.scirp.org/journal/PaperInformation.aspx?PaperID=141533