Mitigating Risk for Cardiovascular Disease in Narcolepsy

Target Audience

This activity was developed for sleep specialists, neurologists, psychiatrists, primary care physicians, advanced practice nurses, and physician assistants.

Goal Statement

This 60-minute CME activity features an expert faculty panel comprised of two sleep experts, a cardiologist and a dietitian, that will engage in an interactive discussion about current evidence-based insights to manage people with narcolepsy - cataplexy (type I) using a combination of medications and behavioral interventions to reduce the likelihood of stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure and cardiac arrest in this vulnerable population. After examining the latest evidence and data surround emerging agents, the faculty will provide expert recommendations for the management of several patient scenarios, emphasizing strategies to address current gaps in the management of narcolepsy and discuss the place of novel, emerging agents in the treatment algorithm.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this activity, participants will be able to

Recognize disease pathophysiology and Identify factors that can play a significant role in the cardiovascular health of narcoleptic patients.
Appraise role wake promoting and anti-cataplectic medications for narcolepsy may play in affecting short-term as well and long-term cardiovascular health.
Plan to manage narcolepsy medications and behavioral issue to reduce the likelihood of stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure and cardiac arrest in this vulnerable population.