Your doctor may also advise you to use the following drugs to help treat cataplexy:
Venlafaxine (Effexor) and Fluoxetine are examples of antidepressants (Prozac), Venlafaxine, and fluoxetine, as well as tricyclics like imipramine (Tofranil) and desipramine, are beneficial in controlling cataplexy. Antidepressants might help inhibit rapid-eye-movement (REM) sleep, which may help lessen cataplexy, as cataplexy is likely related to the irregular REM sleep and sleep paralysis signals that can occur in patients with narcolepsy during wakeful states. These drugs have fewer negative effects than amphetamines, but they can induce high blood pressure, sexual dysfunction, and abnormal heart rhythms.
Sodium Oxybate (Xyrem or Xywav) Sodium oxybate, often known as gamma hydroxybutyrate or GHB, is a strong sedative administered before and during nighttime sleep by persons with narcolepsy to assist reduce daytime sleepiness and cataplexy. Because of the medication’s considerable safety concerns (many nonmedical professionals refer to it as the “date rape medicine”), sodium oxybate distribution is strictly regulated, according to American Family Physician.
The medications, according to MedlinePlus, are only available through a restricted distribution program known as the Xywav and Xyrem REMS Program. In addition, the medications are shipped from a central pharmacy rather than from a retail pharmacy.
While there is no cure for narcolepsy, these healthcare providers can assist you in creating and managing this sleep problem and improving daily function.
Maintaining a regular sleep schedule is critical in the treatment of narcolepsy.
Lifestyle adjustments, in addition to drugs, can make a significant difference in the management of narcolepsy symptoms. According to Shelley Hershner, MD, clinical associate professor of neurology and director of the Collegiate Sleep Clinic at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, who has worked on the American Academy of Sleep Medicine’s narcolepsy quality metrics, the key to successful treatment is a plan that combines medications and behavioral and lifestyle interventions (AASM).
According to Dr. Hershner, the type and severity of symptoms can vary from person to person. Therefore, treatment regimens should consider aspects such as clinical history, the timing of sleepiness, and which medications work when. “Treatment must be individualized to each individual.”
A treatment strategy may involve the following lifestyle changes:
Maintain proper sleeping habits. Consistent and enough sleep is essential for anyone suffering from narcolepsy. If you have narcolepsy, your body already has a more difficult time coordinating your sleep and wakefulness than typical. As a result, doing everything in your power to keep your sleep patterns in sync helps to avoid exacerbating the problem. “For patients with narcolepsy, not getting at least seven hours can be substantially worse,” Hershner explains. In addition, she believes that maintaining a consistent routine is essential. Every day, even on weekends, I go to bed and wake up at the same hour. Keep your bedroom cool and comfy, and do something relaxing before going to bed, such as taking a warm bath.
Take a snooze. Strategic napping — taking short, scheduled naps throughout the day — can help with daytime sleepiness, improve energy, and reduce the number of unplanned sleep attacks, according to Eric Olson, MD, a Mayo Clinic professor of medicine and sleep medicine specialist and member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine’s board of directors (AASM).
Avoid coffee and alcohol late at night. Even using these medications several hours before night can exacerbate narcolepsy symptoms.
Regular exercise is essential. Regular exercise at least four or five hours before bedtime will help you sleep better at night.