New Medication for Narcolepsy

People with narcolepsy have difficulties with drowsiness throughout the day and with falling asleep suddenly without warning. Treatment for narcolepsy involves lifestyle modifications such as set sleep routines and medications that promote alertness. The newest medication prescribed for narcolepsy is Nuvigil.

Types

• Medications typically used to treat narcolepsy include stimulants such as Provigil, Ritalin Dexadrine, Desoxyn and Cylert. Physicians routinely prescribe antidepressants including Vivactil, Tofranil, Prozac, Sarafemt and Zoloft to treat narcolepsy symptoms such as sleep paralysis and hallucinations.

Effects

• Stimulants and antidepressants both have side effects that may go away as your body become accustomed to the medication. Common side effects include headaches, nausea, diarrhea or constipation, insomnia, weight loss and dry mouth. Stimulants can also cause heart problems in some patients.

Newly Approved Medications

• In June 2007, the FDA approved Nuvigil. Nuvigil, an alertness medication, does not have as many side effects as other stimulants or pose the same heart-related risks as other stimulant medications. Nuvigil also stays in the central nervous system longer than other medications such as Provigil, increasing its long-term effectiveness.

Warnings

• Only take narcolepsy medications as prescribed. Stimulants in particular pose an addiction risk.

Considerations

• Narcolepsy is a potentially debilitating disorder. There are many dangers with this condition if not treated, including falling asleep while driving. It's important to see a doctor and receive treatment to help control narcolepsy symptoms.