Side effects of narcolepsy medication?

[CharmieB]

I was diagnosed with narcolepsy a few months ago.  Since then, I have tried Provigil, which worked at first then seemed to make me even more tired!  I was also tried on ritalin which did the same thing.  

Now I have been taking dextroamphetamine for about 2-1/2 months.  At first it gave me incredible migraines and tension in my neck and shoulders.  My doctor thinks that my body has adjusted to the medication because I no longer have these symptoms.  Now my left lower eyelid twitches nonstop and has been for at least 3-4 weeks now.  It is very annoying!  I am not sure if this is a side effect of the dextroamphetamine or if it is caused from working on a computer all day, everyday.  (I read that this could be caused from eye strain.)  I am concerned because it now seems like my body is "getting used to" the medication.  I do not want to up my dose because I am afraid of the side effects.  

Of note, my blood pressure is and always has been LOW, and I have no heart or circulatory problems.  I eat healthy and exercise 5 times a week.  My sleep schedule is very consistent, getting an average of 8 hours per night.  

Thanks in advance!  

[scarlet37]

I have N too. I started on Provigil which only made matters worse. I was then switched to Ritalin. I started on a low dose of 5mg -3x daily. I am now up to 20mg- 3x daily and I feel like I'm taking water!

I get the eye twitching as well. The twitching seems to get worse when I am fighting a nap and am stressed. Since I have taken some time off from work it has decresed to roughly 1 or 2times per week. I'm not sure if this is a form of Cataplexy or not- i believe it is in my case but everyone is different.

Another website I visit for more Narcolepsy info is talk about sleep dot com. There may be someone else one the same med that can give you more info.

Best Wishes~

[Suri123]

Hi CharmieB, how are you? Well i can understand how anxious and frustrating you might be as you cannot concentrate on your daily routine and at work place. Dexedrine does cause side effects like other drugs and you can go through in detail through this link http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/dextroamphetamine_ad.htm Although there is no specific study to prove the fact eyelid twitches as caused due to drug, it might be possible as irritation to nerve or muscle. You may continue the drug till you consult your doctor to update on follow up visit or seek advice from an Eye specialist to rule out computer vision syndrome or any other possibilities. Do relax, as stress could be a trigger. Take care and post your thoughts.