hi, i was officially diagnosed at 14 with N and very mild cataplexy which only happened 1-3 times a month. my condition is much worse now, 3 years later, i have from 7-15 cataplexy's a week. i was wondering if you know any meds that help treat cataplexy?
I'm sorry for the delay in answering your question. For some reason, these emails seem to get delayed in arriving to my inbox.
A lot of meds are known to reduce cataplexy somewhat. Most antidepressants, including SSRIs and SNRIs actually repress the REM part of sleep. For some reason, not only does that help with hallucinations, but also cataplexy in many people.
Really, the only medication that is truly for narcolepsy is Xyrem. Depending on your insurance, income, and where you live, this can be extremely difficult to get approved for and receive, but for those it works for, it is an amazing medication.
As always, you should talk to your sleep specialist about your options. Also, consider your triggers (if any) and how you might be able to manage them. Talking to others with the same problem often helps. You can join many support groups and message boards, including Planet Narcolepsy's.
If you would like to join a private group to chat with other people with narcolepsy, contact facebook.com/stanton.jessica (that's me!) and let her know you would like to join and she will add you. You cannot find the group through searching.
Best of luck to you in your search for answers, and happy napping!
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