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Narcolepsy Treatment Options

Narcolepsy Treatment


Essential: Medications influence individuals in a different way. This page provides basic info just about treatment choices. Talk with your medical professional about exactly what is right for you.


Cure for Narcolepsy


Narcolepsy Treatment
Narcolepsy has no cure presently. Medications, way of life modifications, and other treatment alternatives can assist alleviate numerous of the symptoms. Treatment for narcolepsy is based upon the type and intensity of your symptoms.

Not all medications and way of living modifications work for everybody. It might take weeks to months for you and your physician to discover the very best treatment prepare for you. Stay client and identified to discover a routine that works well.

Medications to ease Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS):.

  • Sodium Oxybate (XYREM), likewise FDA-approved for lowering cataplexy.
  • Wakefulness Promoting Medications consisting of Modafinil (Provigil)and Armodafinil (Nuvigil)
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants such as Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Ritalin SR, Methylin, Methylin ER), Mixed Amphetamine Salts (Adderall IR, Adderall XR), Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine, Dexedrine SR), and Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)

Medications to Reduce Cataplexy (partial of complete muscle weak point) and other REM Sleep Disturbances:.


  • Sodium Oxybate (XYREM), likewise FDA-approved for decreasing EDS.
  • Antidepressants that quelch REM Sleep, such as:.
  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors like Fluoxetine (Prozac)and Sertraline (Zoloft)
  • Older Tricyclic Antidepressants like Protriptyline (Triptil ® and Vivactil ®), Imipramine (Janimine and Tofranil), Desipramine (Norpramine and Pertofran), and Clomipramine (Anafranil).



Routinely Scheduled Naps:.


Taking brief naps might assist ease extreme daytime lethargy (EDS). Some individuals with narcolepsy discover brief naps an intergral part of treatment. Planning routine naps into one's schedule might be incredibly useful.

Way of living modifications: might assist alleviate some narcolepsy symptoms.

  • Follow a routine sleep schedule. Go to sleep and get up at the exact same time every day.
  • Do something relaxing prior to going to bed, such as taking a warm bath.
  • Keep your bedroom or sleep location peaceful, comfy, dark, and devoid of diversions, such as a TELEVISION or computer system.
  • Allow yourself about 20 minutes to drop off to sleep or fall back asleep after awakening. After that, stand up and do something relaxing (like reading) till you get sleepy.

Particular activities, foods, and beverages prior to going to bed can keep you awake. Attempt to follow these standards:.

  • Exercise routinely, however not within 3 hours of going to bed.
  • Avoid tobacco, alcohol, chocolate, and beverages which contain caffeine for numerous hours prior to bed time.
  • Avoid big meals and drinks prior to bed time.
  • Avoid bright lights prior to going to bed.

Other Therapies.


Light treatment might assist you keep a routine sleep and wake schedule. For this kind of treatment, you sit in front of a light box, which has unique lights, for 10 to 30 minutes. This treatment can assist you feel less sleepy in the early morning.

Why isn't really my treatment working?


Treatments influence individuals with narcolepsy in a different way. Dose and timing modifications can make a big difference in some cases.