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What is the drug of choice for narcolepsy?

What is the drug of choice for narcolepsy?

Drugs that stimulate the central nervous system are the primary treatment to help people with narcolepsy stay awake during the day. Doctors often try modafinil (Provigil) or armodafinil (Nuvigil) first for narcolepsy.

How is hypocretin deficiency treated?

The treatment of narcolepsy/hypocretin deficiency is well-codified, and involves pharmacotherapies using sodium oxybate, stimulants, and/or antidepressants, plus behavioral modifications. These therapies are almost always needed, and the risk-to-benefit ratio is clear, notably in children.

What chemical in the brain causes narcolepsy?

Many cases of narcolepsy are thought to be caused by a lack of a brain chemical called hypocretin (also known as orexin), which regulates sleep.

Which drug causes narcolepsy?

Drug Abuse as a Cause of Narcolepsy

  • Steroids, including prednisone.
  • Diet pills.
  • Drugs that treat high blood pressure, like beta blockers.
  • Hormones, such as oral contraceptives.
  • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder stimulant medications.
  • Some antidepressants.

What is CSF orexin?

Orexin-A (hypocretin-1) is a neuropeptide involved in the sleep/wake cycle in humans. An abnormally low concentration of orexin-A (hypocretin-1) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) indicates type I narcolepsy.

Does magnesium help narcolepsy?

Certain nutrients, such as magnesium and vitamin B, may help control narcolepsy symptoms. A diet rich in nutrients and low in carbohydrates will optimize the body’s performance throughout the day.

Is Strattera used for narcolepsy?

Strattera belongs to a class of drugs called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. Strattera is believed to work in cases of narcolepsy by increasing transmission between neurons, increasing attention and alertness.

What causes hypocretin deficiency?

A gene mutation is associated with low levels of hypocretin. It’s believed that this hereditary deficiency, along with an immune system that attacks healthy cells (i.e an autoimmune issue), contributes to narcolepsy. Other factors, such as stress, brain trauma, exposure to toxins, and infection, may also play a role.

What causes low hypocretin?

Is there a blood test for hypocretin?

In addition to the above, Stanford Sleep Specialists will commonly performed a blood genetic test for narcolepsy if they suspect hypocretin deficiency called Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) DQB1*06:02 typing.

Is Vyvanse used to treat narcolepsy?

Vyvanse is used off-label to treat narcolepsy. It is approve for use to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and moderate to severe binge eating disorder. Nuvigil and Vyvanse belong to different drug classes.

Does vitamin B12 help with narcolepsy?

Conclusion: Decreased serum vitamin B12 levels are independently associated with the development of narcolepsy, which illustrates the complex relationship between vitamin B12 and narcolepsy. Future studies should explore whether vitamin B12 supplementation can improve the symptoms of patients.

Is Adderall or Ritalin better for narcolepsy?

Is Ritalin or Adderall better? Ritalin and Adderall are both effective prescription drugs to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. Research has shown that Ritalin may be better for children and adolescents while Adderall may be better for adults.

Is Vyvanse good for narcolepsy?

Nuvigil (armodafinil) and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) are used to treat narcolepsy. Nuvigil is also used to treat excessive sleepiness caused by sleep apnea or shift work sleep disorder.

What is the difference between Provigil and Sunosi?

Provigil and Sunosi belong to different drug classes. Provigil is a stimulant and Sunosi is a dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (DNRI). Side effects of Provigil and Sunosi that are similar include headache, nausea, anxiety, and trouble sleeping (insomnia).