Suvorexant (Belsomra®) is an orexin receptor antagonist that is used as a hypnotic. Here is basic information about this medication.
FDA-approved indications
Treatment of insomnia, characterized by difficulties with sleep onset and/or sleep maintenance
Pharmacological effects
Suvorexant is an orexin receptor antagonist and is the first approved drug that works through this mechanism. Orexins in the brain are involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle and wakefulness.
Dosage
Start with the lowest effective dose in adults.
Recommended: 10 mg, given within 30 minutes of going to bed, with at least 7 hours remaining till planned awakening.
Maximum: 20 mg (if needed and tolerated)
Note: Effect may be delayed if taken with or within 30 minutes after food.
Potential side effects
Please see THIS PAGE for a handout listing both the common and less common side effects of this medication along with the percentages of patients who report them.
Dosage forms and strengths
Tablets: 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg
Important! Please refer to the full Prescribing Information (see link below) before prescribing this medication.
Related Pages
Practical tips on using hypnotics: the Z drugs
Practical tips on using hypnotics: benzodiazepines
Relaxation Practice: A Simple and Powerful Tool for Anxiety, Tension, and Insomnia
Three important pieces of information about benzodiazepines
Sleep Hygiene worksheets-Part 1 and Part 2
Sleep log: Ten important questions about the person’s sleep
References
Suvorexant (Belsomra®) Prescribing Information
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