Belsomra: Information on Strengths, Form, Usage, and Additional Details
Belsomra, a brand-name prescription medication, is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat insomnia in adults. This dual orexin receptor antagonist comes in the form of an oral tablet and is not available in a generic version [1].
The typical dosage of Belsomra for insomnia is 10 mg per night, taken within 30 minutes of going to bed. However, the dosage can range from 5 mg to 20 mg per night, with the maximum dosage being 20 mg per night [2]. Older adults (age 65 years or older) may require a lower dosage due to an increased risk of side effects such as drowsiness and falling [3].
It is recommended to avoid eating 30 minutes before taking Belsomra for optimal effectiveness. The medication can be taken with or without food, but taking it soon after eating may delay the drug's onset [2]. Female patients and those with obesity may also require a lower dosage due to an increased risk of drowsiness [3].
Belsomra should be taken within 30 minutes of going to bed and at least 7 hours before waking up to minimize the risk of side effects. A missed dose should only be taken if you have at least 7 hours before you plan to wake up [3].
As a controlled substance, Belsomra carries a risk of misuse. If you take more Belsomra than prescribed, call your doctor immediately or contact America's Poison Centers (1-800-222-1222 or online tool). In case of severe symptoms, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room [3].
For those who may have trouble opening medication bottles, ask your pharmacist about putting Belsomra in an easy-open container. A dosage adjustment by a healthcare professional may be necessary for older adults taking Belsomra for insomnia, due to an increased risk of side effects [3].
Some patients report better efficacy from doses closer to 15-20 mg, though 10 mg may sometimes be insufficient [3]. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best dosage for your specific needs.
[1] FDA.gov - Belsomra (suvorexant) label [2] Mayo Clinic - Belsomra (suvorexant) [3] RxList - Belsomra (suvorexant) Drug Information
- Mental health is a crucial factor to consider when using Belsomra, as it carries a risk of misuse and its side effects may exacerbate symptoms of drowsiness, particularly for female patients and those with obesity.
- While Belsomra is primarily utilized for health-and-wellness purposes to treat insomnia, it's staggering to think that this prescription medication also shares a relationship with science, given its dual orexin receptor antagonist nature - a concept that could potentially be explored in the realm of anthrax research due to their shared connections with the sleep-wake cycle.
