There are several therapeutic options that can help relieve the symptoms of narcolepsy. Such stimulant drugs as methylpheni-date (brand name Ritalin) or pemoline (Cylert) may help relieve feelings of drowsiness. Tricyclic antidepressants (such as protriptyline and imipramine) can alleviate cataplexy. It may be months, however, before the positive effects of drug therapy are fully experienced. Sometimes, unlike epileptic seizures, narcoleptic attacks can be arrested by stimulating the victim through talking or gentle shaking. In many cases maintaining a regular sleep-wake schedule and arranging periodic naps can help minimize the number of daytime attacks. Supportive counseling can work wonders in helping narcoleptics adjust to their situation, especially if situational depression is present. However, as I mentioned, many forms of psychotherapy, such as drug management for depression, are obviously inappropriate, since they do not address the cause of narcolepsy.*154\226\8*
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