Studies Show Narcolepsy Reactions To Swine Flu Vaccine: Boy Awarded 120,000 Pounds

Over the last few years, several studies have recently shown narcolepsy-related reactions to the swine flu vaccine. Most recently, a 12-year-old boy was awarded 120,000 pounds when the court agreed that his severe and sudden narcoleptic onset was triggered by the swine flu vaccination.

The boy’s family lawsuit finally came to a close after three years of battling with the government over the matter. The court originally ruled that the boy’s illness was not serious enough to be awarded payment. The same was said for approximately 100 families who were affected by the uncommon sleeping illness. Peter Todd, the solicitor for the 12-year-old boy and family, spoke about the serious problems the vaccination has caused for some people..

“They felt quite insulted to have their condition basically dismissed as something quite trivial. They are incredibly needy. Some have lost their jobs, dropped out of university or seen their marriages break down as a result [of narcolepsy].”

Following the overturning of the court’s initial decision, the boy and each of the 100+ families had the opportunity to request payment based on the damages which were caused by the Pandemrix vaccine. It was administered to more than 6 million Britains when swine flu broke out between 2009 and 2010. The sudden increase in narcoleptic patients during that time led scientists to make the connection, and the affected families will finally receive their damage payments.

Drug Studies to Help Improve Effectiveness of Narcolepsy Medication

These narcolepsy-related reactions have led scientists to perform the first study ever that examines narcolepsy drugs in children and adolescents. The study, performed by Jazz Pharmaceuticals Inc. in Palo Alto, California, tested the effects that sodium oxybate based drugs have on the younger generation. This study was designed to test the effectiveness of the drug.

The results were positive, showing that these types of drugs could extremely helpful for relieving symptoms of narcolepsy. However, they are looking for further test subjects to determine the effects and side effects of the drugs before making an official statement.

Narcolepsy Medication Could Improve Depressive Symptoms

A study performed late last year also showed that certain narcolepsy drugs, when used in combination with behavioral therapies, have shown positive results in treating symptoms of depression. Those who were administered the drug showed significant improvement in mood as compared to those who received a placebo.

These studies are integral to improving the way of life of those afflicted with the illness, which is categorized as “a condition characterized by an extreme tendency to fall asleep whenever in relaxing surroundings.” The most common symptoms include excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy (sudden loss of muscle tone), hallucinations, and sleep paralysis.

The most recent studies have shown that thousands of narcolepsy patients have been able to find health and happiness again, including the little 12-year-old boy who has been suffering the symptoms for years and has finally received compensation for his illness.

[Photo by Ray Moreton/Keystone Features/Getty Images]