Download PDF
Pharmacopsychiatry 1995; 28(3): 98-100
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-979599
Case Report

© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Tranylcypromine in Narcolepsy

H. B. P. E. Gernaat, P. M. J. Haffmans, H. Knegtering, T. K. Birkenhäger
  • Department of Biological Psychiatry, Bloemendaal Psychiatric Center, The Hague, Netherlands
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
23 April 2007 (online)

Also available at
  PDF Download  Permissions and Reprints

Abstract

The narcolepsy syndrome consists of excessive daytime somnolence, cataplexy, hallucinations, and sleep paralysis. Data on the effects of tranylcypromine are scant. We report on a patient with severe narcolepsy in whom administration of tranylcypromine led to freedom from hallucinations, nightmares, sleep paralysis, and rapid eye movements (REM), with considerable amelioration of cataplexy and increased daytime alertness. Muscle atonia and low-voltage desynchronized cortical activity during REM sleep did not change. Tranylcypromine warrants further study in narcolepsy.