Daridorexant
Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Orexin Receptor Antagonist
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Daridorexant
Summary
Daridorexant is mainly used for the treatment of insomnia in adults. It helps those who have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
Daridorexant works by blocking the action of orexin, a substance in the brain that promotes wakefulness. It reduces wakefulness and promotes sleep, making it easier for you to fall and stay asleep.
The usual daily dose for adults is 25 mg to 50 mg, taken orally once per night, within 30 minutes of going to bed.
Common side effects of Daridorexant include headache, fatigue, and nausea. Serious adverse effects can include sleep paralysis, hallucinations, and complex sleep behaviors.
Daridorexant can cause next-day drowsiness, complex sleep behaviors, and worsening of depression or suicidal thoughts. It should not be used by patients with narcolepsy or a history of hypersensitivity to the drug. Alcohol and other CNS depressants should be avoided while taking this medication.
Indications and Purpose
How does Daridorexant work?
Daridorexant works by blocking the action of orexin, a natural substance in the brain that promotes wakefulness. By inhibiting orexin receptors, it helps reduce wakefulness and promotes sleep, making it easier to fall and stay asleep.
Is Daridorexant effective?
Clinical studies have shown that Daridorexant effectively improves sleep onset and maintenance in adults with insomnia. It has been proven to reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and decrease wakefulness after sleep onset, leading to better overall sleep quality.
What is Daridorexant?
Daridorexant is used to treat insomnia in adults, helping with difficulties in falling asleep and staying asleep. It works by blocking orexin receptors in the brain, which are involved in wakefulness, thereby promoting sleep. This medication should be taken before bedtime, and users should ensure they can stay in bed for at least 7 hours.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Daridorexant?
Daridorexant is typically used for short-term treatment of insomnia. The appropriateness of continued treatment should be assessed within 3 months and periodically thereafter. If insomnia persists, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
How do I take Daridorexant?
Daridorexant should be taken once a day, no earlier than 30 minutes before bedtime. It can be taken with or without food, but it may work faster on an empty stomach. Avoid alcohol and grapefruit products while taking this medication.
How long does it take for Daridorexant to start working?
Daridorexant typically starts working within 30 minutes to an hour after taking it. It is important to take it just before bedtime to ensure you can stay in bed for at least 7 hours.
How should I store Daridorexant?
Store Daridorexant in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and do not store it in the bathroom. Dispose of unneeded medication through a take-back program to prevent accidental ingestion.
What is the usual dose of Daridorexant?
The usual daily dose for adults is 25 mg to 50 mg taken orally once per night, within 30 minutes of going to bed. Daridorexant is not recommended for use in children as its safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Daridorexant be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Daridorexant is present in human breast milk in low amounts. While the effects on the breastfed infant are not well-studied, it is advised to monitor infants for excessive sedation. Discuss with your healthcare provider the benefits of breastfeeding against the need for Daridorexant.
Can Daridorexant be taken safely while pregnant?
There is no available data on the use of Daridorexant in pregnant women to evaluate the risk of fetal harm. It should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Can I take Daridorexant with other prescription drugs?
Significant drug interactions with Daridorexant include those with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers, which can alter its effectiveness. Avoid using it with other CNS depressants like benzodiazepines and opioids, as they can increase the risk of drowsiness and impaired alertness.
Is Daridorexant safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients using Daridorexant should be cautious due to an increased risk of falls and drowsiness. No dose adjustment is required for those over 65, but they should be monitored closely for side effects. It's important to avoid activities requiring full alertness until they know how the medication affects them.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Daridorexant?
Drinking alcohol while taking Daridorexant is not recommended. Alcohol can increase the side effects of Daridorexant, such as drowsiness and impaired alertness, which can be dangerous. It is advised to avoid alcohol consumption while using this medication.
Who should avoid taking Daridorexant?
Key warnings for Daridorexant include the risk of next-day drowsiness, complex sleep behaviors, and potential worsening of depression or suicidal thoughts. It is contraindicated in patients with narcolepsy and those with a history of hypersensitivity to the drug. Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants while taking this medication.