Hello, Lisasnead-
After Orexin/Hypocretin (same thing) was discovered in 1998) low levels were tied to the cause of narcolepsy. (at least for Type 1 and secondary) It was shortly found it could actually be reproduced in quantity. Not only did it work for narcoleptics, (narcoleptic rhesus monkeys, anyway) but could also keep a 'normal' brain awake and alert through the night or longer, and seemed to have no negative side effects. The brain stops production of Orexin/Hypocretin in the evening and starts producing melatonin, bringing on sleep. Excited drug companies started gearing up to make and sell the product, which had promise to keep pilots, military, truck drivers, and others awake if needed in certain situations. Also maybe college students who are cramming for finals? However, at the time (late 1990s-early 2000s) it was realized/believed the percentage of narcoleptics were a fraction of the population, so production etc. wouldn't be profitable, as well as the large potential for abuse.
So ended that hope for narcolepsy, but at least it's studied more and more today, although the available (harsh) chemical meds are a poor 2nd to the natural substance produced by the brain.
But the drug companies are profiting well.
There is ongoing research with Orexin/Hypocretin, but the source typically extracted from rat brains, as large quantities just aren't needed for research.
I don't mean to blow a hole in anyone's high hopes, but that's the reality of the situation at this time.
Maybe a backyard setup making batches of hootch Orexin/Hypocretin...?
My best to you, Jeff4

Unfortunately, narcolepsy cannot be cured. It is now believed to be an autoimmune disorder.