Top of page Narcolepsy and driving YOU MAY NEED to drive to school or work, or as part of your job. The good news is that diagnosed and medically treated persons with narcolepsy appear no more at risk for crashes than the general public. This may require a letter from your doctor, whom you should keep informed about your ability to drive safely. Stop driving Find a safe place to stop for a break or for the night. Drink coffee or other type of caffeine drink to promote short-term alertness if needed.
Caffeine is also available in soft drinks, chewing gum and tablets.
Caffeine and a nap together offer short-term benefits. Get off the road if you hit shoulder rumble strips. These are deep grooves that are placed on high-speed roads to alert you when you are leaving the road. Sexual problems, such as low sex drive and impotency, may result from severe sleepiness, depression, medications or cataplectic attacks. These problems, especially any resulting from a new medication or changed dosage, should be discussed with your doctor.