Narcolepsy Treatment

Narcolepsy treatment is typically modified to suit the individual, based on symptoms and therapeutic reactions. Time is highly necessary to achieve optimal control of symptoms which may take for a couple of months or longer. Medication changes are also commonly required, and total control of symptoms is hardly possible. Oral medications are the mainstay of formal treatment but it is also important to make some lifestyle changes in order to make the treatment more effective.

Major treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness or EDS of this sleep disorder is with a group of drugs called central nervous system stimulants like Methylphenidate, racemicamphetamine, dextroamphetamine and methamphetamine or modafinil, a new stimulant having different pharmacologic mechanism. Other medications used are codeine, selgiline, atomoxetine a non stimulant and Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor or NRI which has a small or no abuse potential.

For Cataplexy and other rapid eye movement or REM sleep symptoms are commonly with tricylic antidepressants such as clomipramine, imipramine or protriptyline, as well as other drugs which suppress REM sleep, Venlafaxine, a newer antidepressant that blocks the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, had shown effectiveness in controlling symptoms of Cataplexy. But a recently approved medication by the U.S Food and Drugs Administration or FDA was specifically indicated for cataplexy the Gamma-hydroxybutyrate or GHB. This medication improves the quality of nocturnal sleep and also reduces symptoms of EDS.

Narcolepsy treatment with the above medications also includes schedules for short naps from ten to fifteen minutes two or three times a day in order to help control excessive daytime sleepiness. Constant communication between the health care provider, patient and their family is essential for better management of narcolepsy.

Narcolepsy treatment requires enough knowledge from the patient together with the family in order to make the management effective. It also helps them deal practically and emotionally with the narcoleptic during the occurrence of symptoms. Occupational limitations are possible to induce to the patient during treatment, in order to avoid possible injuries when symptoms begin. Individuals with narcolepsy should avoid jobs which require driving long distances, physical power, or alertness for lengthy period.

Narcolepsy treatment is not just by medications or through drugs but the fact is, it also strongly requires communication and awareness from the patient and in family.