Leg cramps at night, or nocturnal leg cramps (NLCs), or Charley horses, are uncontrolled spasms in the muscles of the leg that may be painful. The spasms typically occur in the calf muscles, though they may also appear in the thighs or feet. Much of the time, simple stretches may help ease the cramped muscles. There are also other treatments and prevention methods. Anyone dealing with leg cramps regularly should contact a doctor for a full diagnosis.
Experiencing leg cramps at night is fairly common. In a 2017 study, researchers found that about 30% of adults report having NLCs at least five times a month. Leg cramps are involuntary muscle spasms anywhere in the leg, though they are most common in the calf. The muscle tenses up, causing discomfort or moderate to severe pain and tightness in the area.
NLCs may also lead to other issues. It can disrupt sleep and break a person’s sleep cycle, which can make them feel tired or lethargic the next day. Leg cramps may make it very difficult to fall asleep, and this could lead to issues such as insomnia over time.
Can Medications Cause Leg Cramps At Night?
Yes, several medications can cause leg cramps at night as a side effect. In fact, many drug products list this adverse event as a side effect in the package. In this article, we will explore the medications that are most likely to cause leg cramps at night, as well as why they may have this effect and what can be done to alleviate the symptoms.
Medications That Cause Leg Cramps at Night
1. Statins
Statins are medications that are commonly prescribed to help lower cholesterol levels. While they are effective at reducing the risk of heart disease, they have been known to cause muscle cramps, including leg cramps. This is because statins can deplete the body’s levels of coenzyme Q10, which is an important nutrient for muscle function. Without enough coenzyme Q10, muscles may be more prone to cramping.
2. Diuretics
Diuretics are medications that help the body get rid of excess water and salt by increasing urine production. While they can be helpful for treating conditions like high blood pressure and heart failure, they can also cause leg cramps. This is because diuretics can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can make muscles more prone to cramping.
Antidepressants are medications that are used to treat depression and anxiety. While they can be helpful for improving mood, they can also cause leg cramps. This is because some antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, which can affect muscle function.
Antipsychotics are medications that are used to treat mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. While they can be effective at reducing symptoms, they can also cause leg cramps. This is because antipsychotics can affect the balance of dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain, which can affect muscle function.
Beta-blockers are medications that are used to treat conditions such as high blood pressure and heart failure. While they are effective at reducing the risk of cardiovascular events, they can also cause leg cramps. The exact mechanism by which beta-blockers cause leg cramps is not fully understood. However, it is believed that beta blockers can affect the flow of calcium in muscle cells, which can lead to muscle cramps or spasms. This may be especially true for the leg muscles, which are larger and more prone to cramping.
How To Prevent Medication-Induced Leg Cramps At Night
If you are experiencing leg cramps at night due to medication, here are some tips that may help prevent or alleviate them:
1. Speak with your doctor: If you are experiencing leg cramps as a side effect of medication, it is important to speak with your doctor. They may be able to adjust your medication or prescribe a different one that does not cause leg cramps.
2. Stay hydrated: Dehydration can contribute to muscle cramps. Be sure to drink plenty of water and other fluids throughout the day.
3. Stretch before bed: Gentle stretching exercises can help loosen up tight muscles and prevent cramps. Try stretching your calves, hamstrings, and quadriceps before bedtime.
4. Massage your legs: Massaging your legs can help improve circulation and alleviate muscle tension. You can use your hands or a foam roller to massage your legs.
5. Take a warm bath: Soaking in a warm bath before bedtime can help relax your muscles and reduce the risk of cramps.
6. Use heat or ice: Applying a warm or cold compress to your legs can also help alleviate muscle tension and prevent cramps.
7. Take supplements: Some supplements, such as magnesium or potassium, may help prevent leg cramps. However, be sure to speak with your doctor before taking any supplements, as they may interact with your medication.
Remember to always consult your doctor before taking any decision to add or alter your prescribed medication.
