Axsome Therapeutics announces results of CRESCENDO narcolepsy survy

Axsome Therapeutics announced topline results from the CRESCENDO survey of patients with narcolepsy type 1 receiving treatment, demonstrating high rates of persistent symptoms and significant patient burden, despite being on current treatments. CRESCENDO was conducted in partnership with Narcolepsy Network, a national non-profit patient support organization for people with narcolepsy, idiopathic hypersomnia, and related sleep disorders. The CRESCENDO survey included 203 adult patients diagnosed with NT1, who collectively have more than 2600 years of lived experience with the sleep disorder, to understand their experience and journey, to measure disease symptoms including cognitive impairment while on treatment, and to assess burden of illness, comorbidities, and unmet needs and challenges patients face. To quantify key elements of the narcolepsy patient experience, CRESCENDO utilized patient reported measures, and validated scales including the Epworth Sleepiness Scale to assess excessive daytime sleepiness, and the British Columbia Cognitive Complaints Inventory to assess cognitive function. All patients taking part in the survey were currently undergoing treatment for NT1. The most common treatments were wake promoting agents, oxybates, and stimulants. Despite receiving treatment, the majority of narcolepsy patients continued to experience symptoms. Cataplexy was reported by 77% of patients while on their current treatment regimen. EDS, assessed using the ESS, was observed in 64% of patients despite receiving current treatments. Cognitive impairment, assessed using the BC-CCI, was observed in 74% of patients. Depression and anxiety were experienced by about 45% and 57% of patients respectively. Axsome plans to present the detailed results of the CRESCENDO survey at upcoming scientific meetings.