Belsomra (Suvorexant)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Belsomra Used For?
Belsomra is a medication designed to assist individuals who have trouble sleeping. It works by blocking wakefulness, allowing sleep to occur.
Primary Uses
Belsomra is primarily used to treat insomnia, which includes difficulties in falling asleep and/or staying asleep.
How It Works
Belsomra temporarily blocks the signals that promote wakefulness, facilitating the onset and maintenance of sleep.
Good to know: Belsomra is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Belsomra
Belsomra should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider, ideally within 30 minutes of bedtime.
Dosage Instructions
For non-elderly adults (under 65 years), the recommended dose is one 20 mg tablet. For elderly adults (65 years and older), the recommended dose is one 15 mg tablet. It can be taken with or without food and should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, do not take Belsomra unless you can ensure a full night of sleep (at least 7 hours) before needing to be active again. Resume your usual dose the following night.
Important: Never double the dose if you miss one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Sleepiness
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Unusual dreams
- Feeling abnormal
- Anxiety
- Memory loss
- Temporary weakness in legs
- Cough
- Awareness of heartbeat
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Abnormal thoughts and behavior
- Worsening depression and suicidal thoughts
- Sleep paralysis
Impulse Control Issues
There is a risk of developing impulse control issues, including gambling or spending problems.
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations before taking Belsomra.
Who Should Not Take Belsomra
Do not take Belsomra if you have a history of allergic reactions to it or its ingredients, if you have narcolepsy, or if the packaging is damaged or expired.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have a history of muscle weakness (cataplexy), narcolepsy, depression, mental illness, substance abuse, liver disease, or breathing problems.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as it is unclear if Belsomra can harm an unborn baby. Also, discuss breastfeeding with your doctor.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients, especially those with dementia, should use Belsomra with caution due to potential side effects.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications can interact with Belsomra, affecting its efficacy or increasing side effects.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit products as they may affect how Belsomra works.
- Clarithromycin
- Erythromycin
- Fluconazole
- Itraconazole
- Diltiazem
- Verapamil
- Certain HIV medications
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol and driving while taking Belsomra.
Alcohol
Do not take Belsomra if you have consumed alcohol that evening or before bed, as it can increase the risk of serious side effects.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or operating machinery until you know how Belsomra affects you, as it may cause drowsiness the next day.
Storage
Store Belsomra in its blister pack until you are ready to take it. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heat, and out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Belsomra, seek immediate medical attention. Contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 or go to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
Belsomra should be taken within 30 minutes of bedtime, and it typically helps you fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
Yes, Belsomra can be taken with or without food.
Belsomra is not considered addictive.
Consult your doctor before stopping Belsomra to discuss any potential withdrawal effects.
No, do not drink alcohol while taking Belsomra as it can increase the risk of serious side effects.
Weight gain is not specifically mentioned as a side effect of Belsomra.
Elderly patients should use Belsomra with caution, especially those with dementia.
If you miss a dose, do not take Belsomra unless you can ensure a full night of sleep before needing to be active again.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.