NCT06383806 · University of Utah
Decreasing Nightmares in Adults With Narcolepsy
(DAWN)
What this study is about
The purpose of this clinical trial is learn whether a behavioral (non-medication) treatment can reduce nightmares in adults with narcolepsy. All participants will receive the treatment and will complete three assessments. Half of the participants will receive the treatment after the first assessment, and half will receive it after the second assessment.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this clinical trial is learn whether a behavioral (non-medication) treatment can reduce nightmares in adults with narcolepsy. All participants will receive the treatment and will complete three assessments. Half of the participants will receive the treatment after the first assessment, and half will receive it after the second assessment. Romantic partners of participants with narcolepsy will also be eligible to enroll in the study. Partners will complete three assessments but will not participate in the treatment.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Imagery Rehearsal Therapy (IRT)
The intervention will consist of 7 therapy sessions (once per week for 7 weeks) which will be delivered via videoconference. During the sessions, participants will learn techniques for managing and changing nightmares.
Primary outcome measures
Disturbing Dream and Nightmare Severity Index (DDNSI)
Time frame: Completed at each of the three assessments (baseline, 10 weeks, 19 weeks)
The DDNSI is a questionnaire which measures the severity of nightmares.
Nightmare frequency (sleep diary)
Time frame: Completed at each of the three assessments (baseline, 10 weeks, 19 weeks)
The number of nightmares experienced each day will be collected on daily sleep diaries completed during each assessment period.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Diagnosis of narcolepsy type 1 or narcolepsy type 2
- Nightmare frequency of ≥1 times per week
- Age 18 or older
- Able to speak, read, and write in English
- Live in the United States
- Sleep and psychiatric medications stable for ≥ 1 month and willing to keep medications stable for the duration of the study
Exclusion criteria
- Currently engaged in trauma- or sleep-related psychotherapy
- Previous behavioral treatment for nightmares
- Medical, psychiatric, or cognitive condition which would interfere with ability to engage in the treatment
- Untreated moderate-severe sleep apnea PARTICIPANTS WHO ARE PARTNERS OF SOMEONE WITH NARCOLEPSY Inclusion Criteria:
- Live with a romantic partner who meets the above criteria and has agreed to participate in the study
- Age 18 or older
- Able to speak, read, and write in English
- Live in the United States
Where
- Salt Lake City, Utah
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 15, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations