A drug called oveporexton reduced daytime sleepiness and cut the rate of sudden muscle weakness in people with narcolepsy type 1, according to results from two large phase 3 clinical trials published by the New England Journal of Medicine.
The trials — named First Light and Radiant Light — tested oveporexton in patients with narcolepsy type 1, a long-term neurological condition where the brain cannot properly regulate sleep-wake cycles. People with this form of narcolepsy also commonly experience cataplexy (sudden, brief episodes of muscle weakness triggered by strong emotions such as laughter or surprise). The results showed the drug improved wakefulness, eased excessive daytime sleepiness, and lowered how often cataplexy episodes occurred.
Side effects were recorded in the trials. The most common were increased urinary frequency and transient insomnia — meaning sleep disruption that appeared temporarily rather than persisting long-term.
The trials are classified as phase 3, the stage of clinical research that tests a treatment in a large group of people to confirm how well it works and to monitor side effects before any regulatory approval process begins.
Narcolepsy type 1 affects a small proportion of the population and is often difficult to manage. Current treatments can reduce symptoms but do not work equally well for everyone, so researchers continue to look for additional options.
The New England Journal of Medicine posted the announcement and linked to the full results and research article for those wanting to read the clinical data in detail.
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Anyone experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness, unexplained muscle weakness, or disrupted sleep patterns should speak to their GP in the first instance. NHS 111 is available around the clock for health queries — call 111 or use the 111 online service.
Source: @NEJM