Cannabis extract in treatment of narcolepsy: A case report

Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that affects sleep-wake regulation and is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden sleep episodes, cataplexy, sleep paralysis, and vivid hallucinations. While there is no cure, symptoms can be managed through pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Emerging research, based on pre-clinical evidence, supports the use of cannabinoid therapies for managing narcolepsy symptoms. This case study reports on a 33-year-old Brazilian woman with narcolepsy who, after conventional treatments proved insufficient, benefited from cannabinoid therapy. Initially treated with modafinil and aripiprazole, her treatment regimen was adjusted to include a Cannabis sativa extract (CSE), allowing for a reduction in her other medications. After 5 months of treatment, she experienced significant improvements in daytime sleepiness, motivation, and ability to perform daily tasks. With the stabilization of her condition, her quality of life was enhanced. While conventional treatments are often effective, they may lose efficacy over time, necessitating dose adjustments or alternative therapies. Cannabinoid therapies have shown promise in managing sleep disorders and may represent a viable alternative for treating narcolepsy.