September is Narcolepsy Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding of narcolepsy and supporting the individuals and families impacted by this rare neurological disorder.
Narcolepsy is characterized by abnormal regulation of sleep-wake states and, in some patients, REM sleep can occur unusually soon after sleep onset, causing the boundaries between wakefulness and sleep to blur. This causes fragmented sleep at night as well as muscle weakness and dream activity while awake. Common symptoms include excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy, sleep paralysis, and hallucinations.
The field of narcolepsy has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, with better diagnostic understanding and advances in treatment options improving patient outcomes, including the recent approval of Orzeyful (oveporexton) in August 2026. However, many patients continue to face disease-related challenges that require further research and implementation.
Narcolepsy Awareness Month is an opportunity to recognize the importance of continued research, multidisciplinary care, patient advocacy, and education within the rare disease community.
At CheckRare, we are committed to raising awareness of rare disorders like narcolepsy and helping connect healthcare professionals and patients with timely educational resources, expert insights, and emerging clinical developments.
To learn more about narcolepsy, visit https://checkrare.com/narcolepsy-recognizing-the-signals-reducing-diagnostic-delay-and-improving-patient-outcomes/
For insights on narcolepsy from leading physician Emmanuel Mignot, MD, PhD, visit https://checkrare.com/narcolepsy-breakthroughs-and-emerging-therapies/
Narcolepsy Advocacy Groups: