MOA: suvorexant is an orexin receptor antagonist used to treat insomnia that is characterized by difficulties with sleep onset and/or sleep maintenance –DrugBank
Drug Class: Miscellaneous anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics are those anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics that are unique in their action and not comparable to any other anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics currently on the market, although their side effects may be similar. Drugs.com
Indications: Insomnia, Alzheimer’s-Related Sleep Issues
Interactions:
- CYP3A Inhibitors: concomitant use of BELSOMRA with potent inhibitors of CYP3A (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole, clarithromycin, nefazodone, ritonavir, saquinavir, nelfinavir, indinavir, boceprevir, telaprevir, telithromycin, and conivaptan) is not recommended.
- The recommended dose of BELSOMRA is 5 mg in subjects receiving moderate CYP3A inhibitors (e.g., amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, ciprofloxacin, diltiazem, erythromycin, fluconazole, fosamprenavir, grapefruit juice, imatinib, verapamil). The dose generally should not exceed 10 mg in patients receiving moderate CYP3A inhibitors.
- CYP3A Inducers: suvorexant exposure can be substantially decreased when co-administered with strong CYP3A Inducers: (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine, and phenytoin). The efficacy of BELSOMRA may be reduced.
–FDA
Pros
- It may be helpful if other sleep aids don’t work
- Works quickly, especially on an empty stomach
- Might be a safe option for the elderly
- Usually doesn’t cause withdrawal symptoms after stopping it
Cons
- Costly but has coupon programs
- Like most of the sleep meds, tolerance may occur, and addiction risks/habit-forming
- Vivid dreams and nightmare risks but may be dose-dependent
Additional Information
Official Medication Website: Belsomra (suvorexant)
- Dangers Of Belsomra Abuse And Addiction –Rehab Center
- FDA OKs New Kind of Sleep Drug Suvorexant (Belsomra) –Medscape
