II. Indications
III. Preparations
IV. Mechanism
- FDA Schedule IV Agent (as with other Nonbenzodiazepine Sedative-Hypnotic agents)
- Orexin (hypocretin) is a Neurotransmitter that promotes wakefulness (deficiency in Narcolepsy)
- Blocking orexin transiently allows for sleep
V. Efficacy
VI. Adverse Effects
- Daytime Somnolence (including the next day)
- Sleep Paralysis or Leg weakness (transient, rare)
VII. Drug Interactions
- Metabolized by CYP3A4
- Moderate CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g. Verapamil)
- Start Belsomra at low dose (e.g. 5 mg)
- Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g. Clarithromycin, Itraconazole)
- Avoid Belsomra with strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors
VIII. Disadvantages
IX. References
- (2015) Presc Lett 22(2):10
- (2022) Presc Lett 29(6): 34
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