Diagnosis and Symptoms of Narcolepsy from the Patient Perspective: Results from In-Depth Qualitative Interviews

Introduction Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), among other symptoms. Previous studies of narcolepsy have largely relied on quantitative methods, providing limited insight into the patient experience. This study used qualitative interviews to better understand this rare condition. Methods Patients with narcolepsy (types 1 [NT1] and 2 [NT2]) were recruited using convenience and snowball sampling. Trained qualitative researchers conducted hour-long, individual interviews. Interview transcripts were coded and thematically analyzed using inductive and deductive approaches. Results Twenty-two adults with narcolepsy (NT1=12; NT2=10) participated (average age: NT1=35; NT2=44). Most were female (NT1=83%; NT2=70%) and white (NT1=75%; NT2=60%). Average times since diagnosis were 7 years (NT1) and 11 years (NT2). At disease onset, symptoms experienced included EDS (NT1=83%; NT2=80%)—sometimes involving sleep attacks (NT1=35%; NT2=50%)—fatigue (NT1=42%; NT2=30%), oversleeping (NT1=33%; NT2=20%), and cataplexy (NT1=42%). Participants sought a diagnosis from healthcare professionals including sleep specialists, neurologists, pulmonologists, psychiatrists, and primary care physicians. Many participants reported receiving a narcolepsy diagnosis >10 years after symptom onset (NT1=50%; NT2=60%). During that time, patients reported misdiagnoses, including depression, sleep apnea, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Common symptoms included EDS (NT1=100%; NT2=90%), cognitive impairment (NT1=92%; NT2=100%), and fatigue (NT1=75%; NT2=90%). All participants with NT1 reported cataplexy. Participants rated these symptoms as among the most bothersome. Conclusions Study results provide descriptions of narcolepsy symptoms and the often challenging journey toward seeking a diagnosis. By using patient-centered, qualitative methods, this study fills a gap by providing additional insights into the patient experience of narcolepsy. Funding Alkermes, Inc.