Brain regions that control sleep-wake cycles are the main targets of narcolepsy. A little but crucial part of the brain that regulates hormone release, REM sleep, and alertness, the hypothalamus, is implicated in the disorder. A neurotransmitter necessary for sustaining wakefulness, hypocretin, is produced by neurons that are lost in many narcoleptics with type 1. This disturbance results in irregular REM sleep patterns, abrupt sleep episodes, and increased daytime drowsiness. The goal of management is symptom control, and under physician supervision, wake-promoting medications like
Modvigil 200 mg may be explored in certain therapeutic contexts.
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