When evaluating the results of randomized controlled trials, the clinical impact of a treatment can be assessed using effect size metrics such as Cohen’s d and number needed to treat (NNT).

In conjunction with the primary results from placebo-controlled studies, the large Cohen’s d values and low NNTs observed in this analysis demonstrate the robust efficacy of pitolisant for the reduction in both excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy in adults with narcolepsy.

The strength of this evidence suggests that pitolisant should be considered as a first-line treatment in adult patients with narcolepsy.