Identifying Genuine Cataplexy in Narcolepsy What cataplexy is, how it presents, and important features that help distinguish genuine cataplexy from other experiences

Sodium oxybate is now a TGA-approved medicine in Australia for the treatment of narcolepsy. On 9 July 2026, a generic brand of sodium oxybate became a TGA-approved medicine in Australia following its inclusion on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). It is important to note that this approval is for narcolepsy only. Sodium oxybate is not approved in Australia for idiopathic hypersomnia. There are currently no medications approved specifically for idiopathic hyp

A new study published in SLEEP (2026) provides strong evidence that the body’s normal “sleep pressure” system doesn’t function properly in people living with Idiopathic Hypersomnia (IH). This might sound technical, but it helps explain something many people with IH experience every day. What is “sleep pressure”? Sleep pressure is the brain’s built-in drive for sleep. In a typical system, it: builds up while you’re awake reduces during sleep resets overnight so you wake up fee

Idiopathic Hypersomnia Day (IH Day) is a global awareness day focused on increasing understanding of idiopathic hypersomnia (IH). IH Day is an opportunity to raise awareness, share lived experience, challenge misconceptions, and build greater understanding of what it is really like to live with IH. Increased awareness is a critical step toward improving diagnosis, access to treatment, and quality of life. Hypersomnolence Australia is proud to continue this work as part of a g

Articled update: May 2026 - new research added The main symptom of Idiopathic Hypersomnia (IH) is an overwhelming need for excessive sleep. Despite adequate and often extraordinary amounts of good quality sleep (e.g., 10–11 hours or more per night), people with IH are in an almost constant state of sleepiness. But IH is much more than that. New research continues to reinforce what people living with IH have been trying to explain for years: Idiopathic Hypersomnia is a 24-hour

Guidance for Health Professionals supporting individuals with Narcolepsy and Idiopathic Hypersomnia The relief individuals may experience when diagnosed with narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia, the confirmation that they have a genuine disorder, is often short-lived. This document aims to guide health professionals in helping individuals prepare for this adjustment and support them in managing their expectations. Click here to download a copy of this information. Discus

Top Tips for Living with Hypersomnia. Practical advice for Patients, Carers, and treating Doctors.

Find more updated information on access to Sodium Oxybate here Many people living with Narcolepsy or Idiopathic Hypersomnia (IH) have been asking what’s happening with Xyrem® (sodium oxybate) supply in Australia. I have met with representatives from UCB Pharma and also communicated directly with MedSurge, the company now supporting supply. Here’s what we can confirm - and why you can still access treatment. What’s happening UCB Pharma, who have been importing and supplying

From the perspective of Central Disorders of Hypersomnolence - Idiopathic Hypersomnia & Narcolepsy