Hostname: page-component-74656f9884-2dmjx Total loading time: 0 Render date: 2026-11-10T07:21:57.016Z Has data issue: false hasContentIssue false

Narcolepsy, a “sleeping disorder”?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 September 2015

Summary

The narcoleptic syndrome in its most specific way is characterized by a set of clinical symptoms, including cataplexy, irresistable sleep episodes, hypnagogic hallucinations and sleepparalysis; the syndrome has been defined by the association of excessive day-time somnolence and REM-sleep abnormalities. In principle, anamnestic information is sufficient to establish the clinical diagnosis, although neuro-physiological and biochemical data(CSF monoamine metabolites and HLA-typology) are sometimes needed to support the diagnostic procedure. Treatment of excessive daytime somnolence is still primarily based upon CNS stimulants, while treatment of cataplexy and related symptoms rests on antidepressants with a primarily serotonergic mode of action.

Information

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Scandinavian College of Neuropsychopharmacology 1991

Access options

Get access to the full version of this content by using one of the access options below. (Log in options will check for institutional or personal access. Content may require purchase if you do not have access.)

Article purchase

Temporarily unavailable