Current and Future Treatment Options for Narcolepsy: A Review

• Main Authors: Jackie Bhattarai, Scott Sumerall
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Brazilian Association of Sleep and Latin American Federation of Sleep Societies
• Series: Sleep Science
• Subjects: Narcolepsy; Therapeutics; Pharmacologic actions; Behavioral medicine; Psychosocial impact
• Online Access: http://www.sleepscience.org.br/export-pdf/401/v10n1a04.pdf

Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological sleep disorder with potentially disabling symptoms ranging from occupational concerns to mental health difficulties. Recent advances related to the neurobiological basis of narcolepsy have led to newer pharmacological treatment options and adjunctive behavioral techniques that support symptom management. This article outlines evidence-based pharmacologic therapies, behavioral techniques, and psychosocial costs related to narcolepsy. Psychosocial factors, although frequently acknowledged, deserve further attention and awareness from researchers and providers. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine's (AASM) Quality Measure Drivers and potential future treatment options are also discussed.