Suvorexant

Generic name: suvorexant [ SOO-voe-REX-ant ]
Brand name: Belsomra
Dosage form: oral tablet (10 mg; 15 mg; 20 mg; 5 mg)
Drug class:Miscellaneous anxiolytics, sedatives and hypnotics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Mar 17, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is suvorexant?

Suvorexant is a sleep medicine that is used to treat insomnia (trouble falling asleep or staying asleep).

Suvorexant may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Do not take more suvorexant than your doctor has prescribed.

Take suvorexant 30 minutes before bedtime. Never take suvorexant if you do not have 7 hours to sleep before being active again.

Some people using this medicine have engaged in activity while not fully awake and later had no memory of it. If this happens to you, call your doctor right away.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use suvorexant if you are allergic to it, or if you have narcolepsy.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• depression, mental illness, or thoughts about suicide;

• drug or alcohol abuse or addiction;

• breathing problems, sleep apnea (breathing stops during sleep);

• liver disease;

• sudden muscle weakness;

• excessive sleepiness during normal waking hours; or

• if you have ever fallen asleep at unexpected times.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Suvorexant is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take suvorexant?

Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides. Never use suvorexant in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of suvorexant.

Suvorexant may be habit-forming. Misuse can cause addiction, overdose, or death. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.

Take suvorexant only once per night, 30 minutes before bedtime.

You may take suvorexant with or without food. Avoid taking the medicine shortly after eating a meal, or the medicine may take longer to work.

Suvorexant will make you fall asleep. Never take this medicine if you do not have 7 hours to sleep before being active again.

You may have trouble speaking or moving while you are falling asleep. It may take longer for you to wake up, speak, or move around when you wake up. You may feel like you are still dreaming for several minutes after waking.