Disease symptomatology and response to treatment in people with idiopathic hypersomnia: initial data from the Hypersomnia Foundation registry

Clinical considerations in the treatment of idiopathic hypersomnia

Idiopathic hypersomnia typically is a chronic and potentially debilitating neurologic sleep disorder, and is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness. In addition to excessive daytime sleepiness, idiopathic hypersomnia symptoms can include severe sleep inertia; long, unrefreshing naps; long sleep time; and cognitive dysfunction. Patients with idiopathic hypersomnia may experience a significant impact on their quality of life, work or school performance, earnings, employment, and overall health. Given the complex range of symptoms associated with idiopathic hypersomnia and the array of treatments available, there is a need to provide guidance on the treatment of idiopathic hypersomnia and the clinically relevant recommendations that enhance effective disease management. Identifying appropriate treatment options for idiopathic hypersomnia requires timely and accurate diagnosis, consideration of individual patient factors, and frequent reassessment of symptom severity. In 2021, low-sodium oxybate was the first treatment to receive approval by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of idiopathic hypersomnia in adults. However, many off-label treatments continue to be used. Adjunct nonpharmacologic therapies, including good sleep hygiene, patient education and counseling, and use of support groups, should be recognized and recommended when appropriate. This narrative review describes optimal treatment strategies that take into account patient-specific factors, as well as the unique characteristics of each medication and the evolution of a patient's response to treatment. Perspectives on appropriate symptom measurement and management, and potential future therapies, are also offered.

The nature and magnitude of cognitive impairment in narcolepsy type 1, narcolepsy type 2, and idiopathic hypersomnia: a meta-analysis

People with narcolepsy type 1 (NT1), narcolepsy type 2 (NT2), and idiopathic hypersomnia (IH) often report cognitive impairment which can be quite burdensome but is rarely evaluated in routine clinical practice. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we assessed the nature and magnitude of cognitive impairment in NT1, NT2, and IH in studies conducted from January 2000 to October 2022. We classified cognitive tests assessing memory, executive function, and attention by cognitive domain. Between-group differences were analyzed as standardized mean differences (Cohen's d), and Cohen's d for individual tests were integrated according to cognitive domain and clinical disease group. Eighty-seven studies were screened for inclusion; 39 satisfied inclusion criteria, yielding 73 comparisons (k): NT1, k = 60; NT2, k = 8; IH, k = 5. Attention showed large impairment in people with NT1 (d = -0.90) and IH (d = -0.97), and moderate impairment in NT2 (d = -0.60). Executive function was moderately impaired in NT1 (d = -0.30) and NT2 (d = -0.38), and memory showed small impairments in NT1 (d = -0.33). A secondary meta-analysis identified sustained attention as the most impaired domain in NT1, NT2, and IH (d ≈ -0.5 to -1). These meta-analyses confirm that cognitive impairments are present in NT1, NT2, and IH, and provide quantitative confirmation of reports of cognitive difficulties made by patients and clinicians. These findings provide a basis for the future design of studies to determine whether cognitive impairments can improve with pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments for narcolepsy and IH.

Dosing Optimization of Low-Sodium Oxybate in Narcolepsy and Idiopathic Hypersomnia in Adults: Consensus Recommendations

INTRODUCTION

Low-sodium oxybate (LXB) is approved for treatment of narcolepsy in patients aged 7 years and older and treatment of idiopathic hypersomnia in adults. LXB contains the same active moiety with 92% less sodium than sodium oxybate (SXB). As the indication for oxybate treatment in patients with idiopathic hypersomnia is new and allows for individualized dosing optimization, guidance for beginning LXB treatment is needed. In particular, clinicians may benefit from guidance regarding treatment initiation, dosing/regimen options, potential challenges, and treatment expectations. Additionally, pharmacokinetic profiles differ slightly between both treatments, and further guidance on transitioning from SXB to LXB in patients with narcolepsy may aid clinicians.

METHODS

An expert panel of five sleep specialists was convened to obtain consensus on recommendations for these topics using a modified Delphi process.

RESULTS

Across two virtual meetings, the panel agreed on 31 recommendations with a high degree of consensus that fell into four overarching topics: (1) introducing LXB to patients; (2) initiating LXB for adult narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia; (3) addressing challenges in using LXB; and (4) transitioning from SXB to LXB. The panel recommended that clinicians provide a clear overview of how LXB works for treating symptoms in narcolepsy or idiopathic hypersomnia, as appropriate for their patients, explain safety aspects, and set expectations prior to initiating LXB treatment. Strategies for initial dosing and regimen are provided. Strategies for adjusting the dose, regimen, timing, and consideration of individual factors were developed for specific instances in which patients may have trouble staying asleep or waking up, as well as guidance for addressing potential adverse events, such as nausea, dizziness, anxiety, and depression. Discussion points based on existing literature and clinical experience were included as relevant for each statement.

CONCLUSION

Clinicians may use this resource to guide LXB dosing optimization with patients.

Recommended protocols for the Multiple Sleep Latency Test and Maintenance of Wakefulness Test in children: guidance from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine commissioned a task force of clinical experts in pediatric sleep medicine to review published literature on performing the Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) and Maintenance of Wakefulness Test for diagnosis and management of central disorders of hypersomnolence among children and adolescents. This paper follows a format similar to that of the paper "Recommended protocols for the Multiple Sleep Latency Test and Maintenance of Wakefulness Test in adults: guidance from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine" that was published in 2021. Since there is insufficient evidence to specify a recommended protocol for the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test in children and adolescents, this paper focuses only on the MSLT protocol. This protocol paper provides guidance to health care providers who order, sleep specialists who interpret, and technical staff who administer the MSLT to pediatric patients. Similar to the adult protocol paper, this document provides guidance based on pediatric expert consensus and evidence-based data when available. Topics include patient preparation, evaluation of medication and substance use, sleep needs before testing, scheduling considerations, optimal test conditions for youth, and documentation. Specific changes recommended for pediatric MSLT protocols include (1) provision of a minimum of 7 hours of sleep (with a minimum 8-hour recording time) on polysomnography the night before the MSLT, ideally meeting age-based needs; (2) use of clinical judgment to guide the need for sleep-disordered breathing treatments before polysomnography-MSLT testing; and (3) shared patient-health care provider decision-making regarding modifications in the protocol for children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental/neurological disorders, young age, and/or delayed sleep phase.

CITATION

Maski KP, Amos LB, Carter JC, Koch EE, Kazmi U, Rosen CL. Recommended protocols for the Multiple Sleep Latency Test and Maintenance of Wakefulness Test in children: guidance from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. J Clin Sleep Med. 2024;20(4):631-641.

Brain fog in central disorders of hypersomnolence: a review

Brain fog is an undefined term describing a cluster of symptoms related to fatigue and impaired memory, attention, and concentration. Brain fog or brain fog-like symptoms have been reported in central disorders of hypersomnolence and in a range of seemingly unrelated disorders, including coronavirus disease 2019, major depressive disorder, multiple sclerosis, lupus, and celiac disease. This narrative review summarizes current evidence and proposes a consensus definition for brain fog. Brain fog is prevalent in narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia, with more than three-quarters of patients with either disorder reporting this symptom in a registry study; it has also been reported as particularly difficult to treat in idiopathic hypersomnia. Studies directly evaluating brain fog are rare; tools for evaluating this symptom cluster typically are patient reports, with few objective measures validated in any disorder. Evaluating brain fog is further complicated by confounding symptoms, such as excessive daytime sleepiness, which is a hallmark of hypersomnolence disorders. No treatments specifically address brain fog. The paucity of literature, assessment tools, and medications for brain fog highlights the need for research leading to better disambiguation and treatment. Until a clear consensus definition is established, we propose brain fog in hypersomnia disorders be defined as a cognitive dysfunction that may or may not be linked with excessive sleepiness, related to an underlying neuronal dysfunction, which reduces concentration and impairs information processing, leading to a complaint of lack of clarity of mental thinking and awareness.

CITATION

Rosenberg R, Thorpy MJ, Doghramji K, Morse AM. Brain fog in central disorders of hypersomnolence: a review. J Clin Sleep Med. 2024;20(4):643-651.

Long-term efficacy and safety of low-sodium oxybate in an open-label extension period of a placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized withdrawal study in adults with idiopathic hypersomnia

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To evaluate 6-month efficacy and safety of low-sodium oxybate in people with idiopathic hypersomnia during an open-label extension period (OLE) of a phase 3 clinical trial.

METHODS

Efficacy measures included the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Idiopathic Hypersomnia Severity Scale (IHSS), Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIc), Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire, short version (FOSQ-10), and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire: Specific Health Problem (WPAI:SHP). Treatment-emergent adverse events were collected throughout the OLE.

RESULTS

The OLE population included 106 participants. Most were female (71%) and White (83%), and the mean (SD) age was 41.0 (13.8) years. ESS scores decreased (improved) during the OLE (mean [SD], study baseline: 16.3 [2.8]; OLE week 2: 6.7 [4.7]; OLE end: 5.3 [3.7]), and IHSS total scores trended toward a decrease (study baseline: 32.6 [7.3]; OLE week 2: 16.2 [8.9]; OLE end: 14.8 [8.6]. Median (minimum, maximum) paired differences from OLE week 2 to OLE end were ESS, -1.0 (-20, 7; nominal P = .012); IHSS, -1.0 (-31, 19; nominal P = .086). The proportion of participants reporting PGIc ratings of "very much improved" increased from 36.7% at OLE week 2 to 53.8% at the OLE end. The FOSQ-10 and WPAI:SHP scores remained stable during OLE. The incidence of newly reported treatment-emergent adverse events decreased over the duration of the OLE.

CONCLUSIONS

Efficacy and safety of low-sodium oxybate were maintained or improved during the 6-month OLE, supporting long-term treatment with low-sodium oxybate in adults with idiopathic hypersomnia.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

Registry: ClinicalTrials.gov; Name: A Multicenter Study of the Efficacy and Safety of JZP-258 in the Treatment of Idiopathic Hypersomnia (IH) With an Open-label Safety Extension; URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03533114; Identifier: NCT03533114 and Registry: EU Clinical Trials; Name: A Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Randomized Withdrawal, Multicenter Study of the Efficacy and Safety of JZP-258 in the Treatment of Idiopathic Hypersomnia (IH) with an Open-label Safety Extension; URL: https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/trial/2018-001311-79/results; Identifier: 2018-001311-79.

CITATION

Morse AM, Dauvilliers Y, Arnulf I, et al. Long-term efficacy and safety of low-sodium oxybate in an open-label extension period of a placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized withdrawal study in adults with idiopathic hypersomnia. J Clin Sleep Med. 2023;19(10):1811-1822.

Idiopathic hypersomnia and Kleine-Levin syndrome

Idiopathic hypersomnia (IH) and Kleine-Levin syndrome (KLS) are rare disorders of central hypersomnolence of unknown cause, affecting young people. However, increased sleep time and excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) occur daily for years in IH, whereas they occur as relapsing/remitting episodes associated with cognitive and behavioural disturbances in KLS. Idiopathic hypersomnia is characterized by EDS, prolonged, unrefreshing sleep at night and during naps, and frequent morning sleep inertia, but rare sleep attacks, no cataplexy and sleep onset in REM periods as in narcolepsy. The diagnosis requires: (i) ruling out common causes of hypersomnolence, including mostly sleep apnea, insufficient sleep syndrome, psychiatric hypersomnia and narcolepsy; and (ii) obtaining objective EDS measures (mean latency at the multiple sleep latency test≤8min) or increased sleep time (sleep time>11h during a 18-24h bed rest). Treatment is similar to narcolepsy (except for preventive naps), including adapted work schedules, and off label use (after agreement from reference/competence centres) of modafinil, sodium oxybate, pitolisant, methylphenidate and solriamfetol. The diagnosis of KLS requires: (i) a reliable history of distinct episodes of one to several weeks; (ii) episodes contain severe hypersomnia (sleep>15h/d) associated with cognitive impairment (mental confusion and slowness, amnesia), derealisation, major apathy or disinhibited behaviour (hypersexuality, megaphagia, rudeness); and (iii) return to baseline sleep, cognition, behaviour and mood after episodes. EEG may contain slow rhythms during episodes, and rules out epilepsy. Functional brain imaging indicates hypoactivity of posterior associative cortex and hippocampus during symptomatic and asymptomatic periods. KLS attenuates with time when starting during teenage, including less frequent and less severe episodes. Adequate sleep habits, avoidance of alcohol and infections, as well as lithium and sometimes valproate (off label, after agreement from reference centres) help reducing the frequency and severity of episodes, and IV methylprednisolone helps reducing long (>30d) episode duration.

Evaluation of hypersomnolence: From symptoms to diagnosis, a multidimensional approach

Hypersomnolence is a major public health issue given its high frequency, its impact on academic/occupational functioning and on accidentology, as well as its heavy socio-economic burden. The positive and aetiological diagnosis is crucial, as it determines the therapeutic strategy. It must consider the following aspects: i) hypersomnolence is a complex concept referring to symptoms as varied as excessive daytime sleepiness, excessive need for sleep, sleep inertia, or drowsiness, all of which warrant specific dedicated investigations; ii) the boundary between physiological and abnormal hypersomnolence is blurred, since most symptoms can be encountered in the general population to varying degrees without being considered as pathological, meaning that their severity, frequency, context of occurrence and related impairment need to be carefully assessed; iii) investigation of hypersomnolence relies on scales/questionnaires as well as behavioural and neurophysiological tests, which measure one or more dimensions, keeping in mind the possible discrepancy between objective and subjective assessment; iv) aetiological reasoning is driven by knowledge of the main sleep regulation mechanisms, epidemiology, and associated symptoms. The need to assess hypersomnolence is growing, both for its management, and for assessing the efficacy of treatments. The landscape of tools available for investigating hypersomnolence is constantly evolving, in parallel with research into sleep physiology and technical advances. These investigations face the challenges of reconciling subjective perception and objective data, making tools accessible to as many people as possible and predicting the risk of accidents.

Impairment in Functioning and Quality of Life in Patients with Idiopathic Hypersomnia: The Real World Idiopathic Hypersomnia Outcomes Study (ARISE)

Purpose

Idiopathic hypersomnia is a debilitating neurologic sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, sleep inertia, and prolonged sleep. Its impact on patients' quality of life and daily functioning has not been fully elucidated. The Real World Idiopathic Hypersomnia Outcomes Study (ARISE) evaluated the daily functioning, relationships, cognition, emotional well-being, and productivity/employment of participants with idiopathic hypersomnia.

Patients and Methods

ARISE was a US-based virtual cross-sectional survey comprising multiple patient-reported outcome measures (Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire, short version [FOSQ-10], Quality of Life in Neurological Disorders [Neuro-QoL] Social Roles and Stigma domains, British Columbia Cognitive Complaints Inventory [BC-CCI], Patient Health Questionnaire [PHQ-9], and the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire: Specific Health Problem [WPAI:SHP]). Participants were adults 21-65 years of age with idiopathic hypersomnia. Data were analyzed for all participants and for subgroups with/without long sleep time (LST; self-reported sleep ≥11 hours in 24 hours).

Results

Of 75 participants enrolled, most were female (81.3%) and the mean (SD) age was 34.1 (10.7) years. Participants' scores on the FOSQ-10 (mean [SD] score: 10.7 [2.8]) and the Neuro-QoL Social Roles (43.4 [4.2]) and Stigma (57.3 [5.9]) domains reflected impairments in daily functioning and quality of life. More than half of participants reported moderate to severe cognitive complaints (BC-CCI; 62.7%) and moderate to severe depressive symptoms (PHQ-9; 66.7%). Scores on the WPAI:SHP showed substantial impairments in absenteeism, presenteeism, overall work productivity, and overall regular daily activity (mean percent [SD]: 12.3 [23.6], 47.6 [22.7], 51.4 [24.7], and 64.0 [21.9], respectively). These considerable impairments were found in participants with and without LST.

Conclusion

ARISE participants with idiopathic hypersomnia demonstrated poor quality of life and impaired functioning across multiple symptom domains.

Central Disorders of Hypersomnolence

OBJECTIVE

The goals of this article are to describe the clinical approach to and management of patients with central disorders of hypersomnolence, and to understand and differentiate available diagnostic tools.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

Updated clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of central disorders of hypersomnolence and narcolepsy specifically highlight new treatment options. Approval for a lower-sodium oxybate formulation that contains 92% less sodium than the standard sodium oxybate for the treatment of narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia adds to the number of medications available for these disorders, allowing for a more tailored management of symptoms.

ESSENTIAL POINTS

Central disorders of hypersomnolence are characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness that impacts daily functions. These disorders can be differentiated by obtaining a detailed clinical sleep history and by a thoughtful interpretation of sleep diagnostic testing. Tailoring treatment approaches to meet the needs of individuals and accounting for medical and psychiatric comorbidities may improve quality of life.

Narcolepsy and Idiopathic Hypersomnia

Narcolepsy types 1 and 2 and idiopathic hypersomnia are primary Central Nervous System (CNS) disorders of hypersomnolence characterized by profound daytime sleepiness and/or excessive sleep need. Onset of symptoms begins typically in childhood or adolescence, and children can have unique presentations compared with adults. Narcolepsy type 1 is likely caused by immune-mediated loss of orexin (hypocretin) neurons in the hypothalamus; however, the causes of narcolepsy type 2 and idiopathic hypersomnia are unknown. Existing treatments improve daytime sleepiness and cataplexy but there is no cure for these disorders.

Idiopathic Hypersomnia: Neurobiology, Diagnosis, and Management

Idiopathic hypersomnia is a chronic neurologic sleep disorder that manifests as excessive daytime sleepiness despite normal or prolonged sleep times for age. Frequently, idiopathic hypersomnia is clinically characterized by marked sleep inertia, long and unrefreshing naps, and a high sleep efficiency. Since the initial description, there has been an ongoing evolution of its nomenclature, approach to diagnosis, characterization of symptoms, and determination of the burden of disease. In addition, an increased attention to and study of its epidemiology, neurobiology, and potential therapeutic strategies has begun to contribute to a better approach to identifying and treating it. At present, idiopathic hypersomnia is considered an orphan disease with unknown frequency and the cause is unknown; however, there is evidence to suggest circadian and sleep structure differences, structural brain changes, and neurochemical changes may contribute to the development and expression of this disease. The approach to treatment can be challenging owing to a limited number of approved treatments (calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium oxybates) in idiopathic hypersomnia. However, consideration of therapies shown to improve excessive daytime sleepiness in other disorders is frequently employed. Future directions require a clear consensus on the defining characteristics of idiopathic hypersomnia to enhance the opportunity for improved recognition, diagnosis, and treatment strategies to be established. This article provides a historical review of the evolving diagnostic classification of idiopathic hypersomnia, potential insights to the underlying pathophysiology, and a summary of proposed approaches for diagnosis and therapeutic intervention.

Update on the treatment of idiopathic hypersomnia: Progress, challenges, and expert opinion

Idiopathic hypersomnia is a central hypersomnolence disorder of unknown origin characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness despite normal or long sleep time, and frequent severe sleep inertia. Management strategies have been largely derived from expert consensus, due to a lack of disease-specific assessments and reliance on case series and rare randomized controlled studies. Guidelines recommend treatment with off-label medications. Modafinil, which was approved for idiopathic hypersomnia until 2011 in Europe, is the most commonly used treatment and improved sleepiness in two recent randomized placebo-controlled trials. In 2021, low-sodium oxybate (LXB) was approved in the United States for idiopathic hypersomnia. In a placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized withdrawal study, LXB reduced daytime sleepiness and sleep inertia, and improved daily functioning. Here, treatment options are reviewed considering the authors' professional experience, current guidelines, and the latest research developments. The choice of pharmacotherapy should be guided by symptom profile, age, comorbidities (eg, depressive symptoms, cardiovascular problems), and concomitant medications (eg, oral contraceptives). Nonpharmacologic approaches have a role in management. An instrument (idiopathic hypersomnia severity scale) has been validated in idiopathic hypersomnia specifically, opening a path to better assessment of symptoms, impact, and response to treatment. Continued research on idiopathic hypersomnia is needed to support treatment algorithms.

Symptom Severity and Treatment Satisfaction in Patients with Idiopathic Hypersomnia: The Real World Idiopathic Hypersomnia Outcomes Study (ARISE)

Objective

Idiopathic hypersomnia is a debilitating sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, sleep inertia, and prolonged sleep duration. The patient burden of idiopathic hypersomnia is poorly understood. The Real World Idiopathic Hypersomnia Outcomes Study (ARISE) evaluated symptoms and treatment effectiveness/satisfaction in participants with idiopathic hypersomnia.

Methods

ARISE was a United States-based virtual cross-sectional survey. Participants were adults 21-65 years of age with idiopathic hypersomnia recruited from social media, the Hypersomnia Foundation website, and a patient panel. Self-assessments included the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Idiopathic Hypersomnia Severity Scale (IHSS), Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication, version II (TSQM-vII), and additional treatment questions. Data were analyzed for all participants and for subgroups with/without long sleep time (LST; ≥11 hours in 24 hours).

Results

Of 75 participants enrolled, most were female (81.3%). The mean (SD) age was 34.1 (10.7) years and 49% had LST. Most participants took off-label prescription medications (89.3%) and/or used other measures (93.3%) to manage their symptoms. The mean (SD) ESS score was 14.5 (3.5) and the mean IHSS score was 35.2 (7.6). Treatment satisfaction was low (mean [SD] TSQM-vII score: overall, 61.9 [21.2]; with LST, 57.9 [21.4]; without LST, 66.7 [20.3]), primarily driven by dissatisfaction with treatment effectiveness. The most common classes of prescription medications used were stimulants (61.3%), wake-promoting agents (28.0%), and antidepressants (18.7%); non-prescription measures used to manage symptoms included caffeine (73.3%), planned naps (34.7%), and individual accommodations (32.0%).

Conclusion

Overall, participants with idiopathic hypersomnia, with or without LST, had substantial symptom burden despite most of the study population taking off-label medications and using nonprescription measures to manage symptoms.

Clinical considerations for the diagnosis of idiopathic hypersomnia

Idiopathic hypersomnia is a sleep disorder of neurologic origin characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, with sleep inertia, long, unrefreshing naps, and prolonged nighttime sleep being key symptoms in many patients. Idiopathic hypersomnia is described in the International Classification of Sleep Disorders, 3rd Edition as a central disorder of hypersomnolence with distinct clinical features and diagnostic criteria; however, confirming the diagnosis of idiopathic hypersomnia is often challenging. Diagnosis of idiopathic hypersomnia is based on objective sleep testing and the presence of associated clinical features but may be difficult for clinicians to recognize and correctly diagnose because of its low prevalence, clinical heterogeneity, and symptoms, which are similar to those of other sleep disorders. The testing required for diagnosis of idiopathic hypersomnia also presents logistical barriers, and reliability of objective sleep measures is suboptimal. The pathophysiology of idiopathic hypersomnia remains unknown. In this review, clinical considerations related to the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of idiopathic hypersomnia will be discussed, including perspectives from the European Union and United States.

What respiratory physicians should know about narcolepsy and other hypersomnias

Narcolepsy and related central disorders of hypersomnolence may present to the sleep clinic with excessive daytime sleepiness. A strong clinical suspicion and awareness of the diagnostic clues, such as cataplexy, are essential to avoid unnecessary diagnostic delay. This review provides an overview of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnostic criteria and management of narcolepsy and related disorders, including idiopathic hypersomnia, Kleine-Levin syndrome (recurrent episodic hypersomnia) and secondary central disorders of hypersomnolence.

Self-reported symptoms and objective measures in idiopathic hypersomnia and hypersomnia associated with psychiatric disorders: a prospective cross-sectional study

STUDY OBJECTIVES

In some patients, it is difficult to correctly nosologically classify daytime sleepiness. Clinical manifestations may be nonspecific; on the basis of objective measures it is possible to determine the current severity of sleepiness, but they do not always allow accurate diagnosis. It is especially difficult to distinguish between idiopathic hypersomnia (IH) and hypersomnia associated with a psychiatric disorder (PSY).

METHODS

To find significant differences between the IH and PSY groups, we included 67 patients (IH, n = 15; PSY, n = 52) in the study, focusing on differences in self-reported symptoms, evaluating current depressive symptoms using the Beck Depression Inventory-II score and personality traits measured by the Temperament and Character Inventory. All of the patients underwent polysomnography, the Multiple Sleep Latency Test, and ad libitum sleep monitoring.

RESULTS

The patients with IH showed greater difficulty than those in the PSY group with waking up in the morning (P < .001) and complained of memory (P = .04) and attention deficit (P = .006). They also showed higher total sleep time (P < .001) and sleep efficiency (P = .007) and a shorter mean sleep latency on the Multiple Sleep Latency Test (P < .001). Nevertheless, the IH and PSY groups did not differ in Beck Depression Inventory scores or personality characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

IH is a syndrome in which depression/external life stressors and personality characteristics also play a role. Patients with IH may benefit from the cooperation of sleep specialists with psychotherapists/psychiatrists.

CITATION

Bušková J, Novák T, Miletínová E, et al. Self-reported symptoms and objective measures in idiopathic hypersomnia and hypersomnia associated with psychiatric disorders: a prospective cross-sectional study. J Clin Sleep Med. 2022;18(3):713-720.

Idiopathic Hypersomnia Severity Scale to better quantify symptoms severity and their consequences in idiopathic hypersomnia

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To assess the responsiveness of the Idiopathic Hypersomnia Severity Scale (IHSS) to medications and estimate the minimum clinically important difference, to report clinically relevant score ranges, and to confirm its psychometric properties and whether items need to be weighted in drug-free and treated patients with idiopathic hypersomnia (IH).

METHODS

Two-hundred twenty-six (166 drug-free and 60 treated) patients with IH (cross-sectional sample) completed the 14-item IHSS to quantify the severity of the 3 major IH symptoms (excessive daytime sleepiness, prolonged nighttime sleep, and sleep inertia) and consequences; 77 untreated patients were evaluated again after treatment (longitudinal sample). Patients filled in the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Beck Depression Inventory II, and European Quality of Life questionnaires.

RESULTS

The IHSS confirmed adequate psychometric properties with a factor analysis indicating a 3-component solution. IHSS total score was lower in treated than untreated patients, with a mean difference of 4-5 points in the cross-sectional and longitudinal samples. Distribution-based methods were used to estimate that 4 points represented the minimum clinically important difference. Four severity levels were defined with between-group differences related to treatment. The probability of having severe sleepiness, depressive symptoms, and low quality of life increased with the severity level. Our results showed that IHSS item-weighting was not necessary.

CONCLUSIONS

The IHSS is a valid and reliable tool to quantify IH symptoms, with 4 severity score levels of clinical importance. The IHSS has adequate psychometric properties and can detect symptom changes after treatment. These findings should stimulate its use in clinical settings and in research studies.

CITATION

Rassu AL, Evangelista E, Barateau L, et al. Idiopathic Hypersomnia Severity Scale to better quantify symptoms severity and their consequences in idiopathic hypersomnia. J Clin Sleep Med. 2022;18(2):617-629.

The Psychomotor Vigilance Test as a measure of alertness and sleep inertia in people with central disorders of hypersomnolence

STUDY OBJECTIVES

The central disorders of hypersomnolence (CDH) manifest with daytime sleepiness, often accompanied by cognitive symptoms. Objective tests characterizing cognitive dysfunction may have diagnostic utility. Further, because some people with CDH report worsening cognition upon awakening, cognitive testing before and after napping may provide additional diagnostic information.

METHODS

CDH patients with idiopathic hypersomnia (n = 76), narcolepsy type 1 (n = 19), narcolepsy type 2 (n = 22), and self-reported excessive daytime sleepiness not meeting current diagnostic criteria (n = 76), and non-sleepy controls (n = 33) underwent testing with the psychomotor vigilance test (PVT), a 10-minute reaction time test. A subset of participants underwent repeat testing during a Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT), before and immediately after naps 2 and 4.

RESULTS

Most PVT metrics were significantly better in controls than in patients with CDH. Minimal group differences in PVT performance were observed by CDH diagnosis. PVT performance was weakly correlated to Epworth and MSLT mean sleep latency in the CDH group. Before and after naps, PVT metrics were minimally different for controls, while PVT performance generally worsened following naps in the CDH group, with significant worsening compared to controls for nap 2 mean, median, lapses, and fastest 10% of responses, and nap 4 lapses and slowest 10% of responses. Change in performance did not differ based on CDH diagnostic group for any metric on either nap.

CONCLUSIONS

The PVT, at baseline and following a short nap, may provide adjunctive diagnostic utility in separating individuals with CDH from controls.

Efficacy and Safety of Lower-Sodium Oxybate in an Open-Label Titration Period of a Phase 3 Clinical Study in Adults with Idiopathic Hypersomnia

PURPOSE

To report the efficacy and safety of lower-sodium oxybate (LXB; Xywav^®) during the open-label titration and optimization period (OLT) and stable-dose period (SDP) in a clinical study for the treatment of idiopathic hypersomnia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data were collected during treatment titration and optimization in a phase 3 randomized withdrawal trial in adults (18-75 years of age) with idiopathic hypersomnia who took LXB treatment (once, twice, or thrice nightly, administered orally) in the OLT (10-14 weeks), followed by the 2-week, open-label SDP. Endpoints included the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Idiopathic Hypersomnia Severity Scale (IHSS), Patient Global Impression of Change, Clinical Global Impression of Change, Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ)-10, and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire: Specific Health Problem (WPAI:SHP).

RESULTS

The safety population included 154 participants; the modified intent-to-treat population comprised 115 participants. During open-label treatment, mean (SD) ESS scores improved (decreased) from 15.7 (3.8) at baseline to 6.1 (4.0) at end of SDP, and IHSS scores improved (decreased) from 31.6 (8.3) to 15.3 (8.5). Improvements were also observed during OLT in each individual IHSS item and in FOSQ-10 and WPAI:SHP scores. Thirty-five (22.7%) participants discontinued during OLT and SDP, 22 (14.3%) due to treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) during OLT and SDP. The most frequent TEAEs in the first 4 weeks were nausea, headache, dizziness, and dry mouth; TEAE incidence decreased throughout OLT and SDP (weeks 1-4, n = 87 [56.5%]; weeks 13-16, n = 39 [31.7%]).

CONCLUSION

During open-label treatment with LXB, participants showed clinically meaningful improvements in idiopathic hypersomnia symptoms and in quality of life and functional measures. TEAE incidence declined over LXB titration and optimization.

Idiopathic Hypersomnia: Historical Account, Critical Review of Current Tests and Criteria, Diagnostic Evaluation in the Absence of Biological Markers and Robust Electrophysiological Diagnostic Criteria

Idiopathic hypersomnia was first described in 1976 under two forms: polysymptomatic, characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, long and unrefreshing naps, nocturnal sleep of abnormally long duration and signs of sleep drunkenness upon awakening; monosymptomatic, manifested by excessive daytime sleepiness only. Yet, after 45 years, this sleep disorder is still poorly delineated and diagnostic criteria produced by successive International Classifications of Sleep Disorders are far from satisfactory. The first part of this review is a historical account of the successive names and descriptions of idiopathic hypersomnia: monosymptomatic and polysymptomatic idiopathic hypersomnia in 1976; central nervous system idiopathic hypersomnia in 1979; idiopathic hypersomnia in 1990; idiopathic hypersomnia with and without long sleep time in 2005; idiopathic hypersomnia again in 2014; and, within the last few years, the proposal of separating idiopathic hypersomnia into a well-defined subtype, idiopathic hypersomnia with long sleep duration, and a more heterogeneous subtype combining idiopathic hypersomnia without long sleep duration and narcolepsy type 2. The second part is a critical review of both current ICSD-3 diagnostic criteria and clinical features, scales and questionnaires, electrophysiological and circadian control tests, research techniques, currently used to diagnose idiopathic hypersomnia. The third part proposes a diagnostic evaluation of idiopathic hypersomnia, in the absence of biologic markers and of robust electrophysiological diagnostic criteria.

Development of a lower-sodium oxybate formulation for the treatment of patients with narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia

INTRODUCTION

Sodium oxybate (SXB) is a standard of care for cataplexy, excessive daytime sleepiness, and disrupted nighttime sleep in narcolepsy. At recommended dosages in adults (6-9 g/night), SXB increases daily dietary intake of sodium by 1100-1640 mg. Because excess sodium intake is associated with increased blood pressure and cardiovascular risk, an oxybate formulation containing 92% less sodium than SXB (lower-sodium oxybate; LXB) was developed to provide an alternative oxybate treatment option. In 2020, LXB was approved for treatment of cataplexy or excessive daytime sleepiness in patients 7 years of age and older with narcolepsy, and in 2021, for treatment of idiopathic hypersomnia in adults.

AREAS COVERED

Development of LXB from initial concept to regulatory approval is described, including formulation development and preclinical and clinical studies. Pharmacokinetic parameters and bioequivalence evaluations from phase 1 clinical trials are detailed. Efficacy and safety results from phase 3 clinical trials of LXB in patients with narcolepsy or idiopathic hypersomnia are presented and discussed.

EXPERT OPINION

Reducing sodium from high sodium‒containing medications is an important step to offset cardiovascular risks associated with high sodium consumption. The development of LXB exemplifies the importance of a collaborative approach to drug development, with patient needs paramount.

PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY

Sodium oxybate (Xyrem®) is a medication for people with narcolepsy aged 7 years and older. Xyrem treats symptoms of excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) or cataplexy (attacks of muscle weakness caused by emotion) in narcolepsy. At the recommended dosages in adults, Xyrem adds a large amount of sodium to daily dietary intake. Too much sodium in the diet is associated with increased blood pressure and risks of damage to the heart and blood vessels. Researchers used calcium, magnesium, and potassium ions in addition to a small amount of sodium to make a new oxybate medication, called Xywav®, that has 92% less sodium than Xyrem. Xywav and Xyrem were similar in laboratory and animal studies. In people, the body absorbs and processes Xywav slightly differently than Xyrem, but Xywav treatment has been shown to work the same to reduce symptoms of cataplexy and EDS in people with narcolepsy and is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. Another neurological disorder with EDS is called idiopathic hypersomnia. Based on a clinical study, Xywav also reduced EDS and other symptoms in people with idiopathic hypersomnia. Side effects with Xywav are similar to those seen in previous studies with Xyrem.

Idiopathic Hypersomnia and Depression, the Challenge for Clinicians and Researchers

The review deals with idiopathic hypersomnia, focusing mostly on the research findings about the presence, onset and severity of excessive daytime sleepiness and depressive symptoms in patients with idiopathic hypersomnia.

The neurophysiological basis of bruxism

Mesencephalic trigeminal nucleus (MTN) neurons innervate the stretch receptors of the jaw elevator muscles and periodontal ligament mechanoreceptors, Bruxism activates the MTN. We analyzed how MTN cells are structured, their anatomy and physiology, and the effects of their activation.

To induce and maintain sleep, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitor neurotransmitter, is released from the ventro-lateral preoptic area of the hypothalamus and acts on the ascending reticular activating system (ARAS) nuclei. The GABA neurotrasmitter induces the entry of chlorine into cells, hyperpolarizing and inhibiting these. MTN cells, on the contrary, are depolarized by GABA, as their receptors are activated upon GABA binding. They “let out” chlorine and activate ARAS cells. MTN cells release glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter onto their target cells, in this case onto ARAS cells. During wakefulness, ARAS activation causes cerebral cortex activation; instead, during sleep (sleep bruxism), ARAS activation avoids an excessive reduction in ARAS neurotransmitters, including noradrenaline, dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine and glutamate. These neurotransmitters, in addition to activating the cerebral cortex, modulate vital functions such as cardiac and respiratory functions. Polysomnography shows that sleep bruxism is always accompanied by cardiac and respiratory activation and, most importantly, by brain function activation. Bruxism is not a parafunction, and it functions to activate ARAS nuclei.

Idiopathic hypersomnia: a homogeneous or heterogeneous disease?

INTRODUCTION

Idiopathic hypersomnia (IH) is a rare orphan disease characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, frequently accompanied by prolonged nocturnal sleep and difficulties awakening, termed sleep inertia or sleep drunkenness. Severe sleepiness usually causes a greater handicap than manifestations of narcolepsy.

METHODS

Forty-three IH patients (17 male, mean age 42.8 ± SD 12.2 years, range 20-67), diagnosed in the past 20 years according to ICSD-2 or ICSD-3 criteria were invited for clinical examination to evaluate the course, manifestations and severity of the disease, as well as clinical comorbidities. The patients completed a set of questionnaires scoring sleepiness, sleep inertia, fatigue, depression, anxiety, circadian preference, and quality of life.

RESULTS

IH patients were divided according to the duration of nocturnal sleep at the time of their diagnosis into two cohorts: (1) with normal sleep duration (n = 25, 58.1%) and (2) with long sleep duration (n = 18, 41.9%). The mean duration of ad libitum sleep per 22 h in the second cohort was 732.0 ± 115.4 min (range 603-1100), and women markedly prevailed (n = 14, 77.8%). Age at disease onset was younger in the group with long sleep duration (21.2 ± 11.4 years versus 28.1 ± 13.6 years, p = 0.028), their MSLT latency was longer (7.2 ± 3.7 min versus 5.1 ± 1.7 min, p = 0.005), a history of sleep inertia prevailed (p = 0.005), and daily naps were mostly non-refreshing (p = 0.014). Additionally, questionnaires in the group with long sleep duration showed more severe sleep inertia (p = 0.007), fatigue (p = 0.004), and a tendency towards evening chronotype (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

IH patients with long sleep duration differ clinically as well as by objective measures at the time of diagnosis and in long-term follow up from IH patients without long 24-h sleep time. In our opinion they represent an independent clinical entity to be considered in the revised ICSD-3 criteria.