[owl2020]

An FDA advisory panel found the Merck sleep drug suvorexant safe and effective at low doses in May 2013. The FDA does not have to go along with the advisory panel but usually does. This drug is different in that it blocks orexin production in the brain; the chemical orexin promotes wakefulness. The drug is designed to help people fall asleep and stay asleep. The most prevalent side effect is next day sleepiness. Do Insomnialand viewers think this drug is really a breakthrough or just more of the same (assuming the FDA approves it)?

[grayeyedathena]

My sleep medicine doc told me about this drug last month, and he seemed pretty excited about it because of this direct treatment of wakefulness rather than the increase in sleepiness. I'm hopeful but not too hopeful… and the next day sleepiness is a real turnoff, but I think I read that they lowered the dosage because of that. If it doesn't work, it will at least be on the right track. Fingers crossed!

[owl2020]

Yes it seems to have a novel approach by targeting wakefulness but while it may work for some people others may not be helped. Not clear when it may hit the market assuming the FDA follows the advisory panel recommendation. Also how long can you take it before it begins to lose its effectiveness? Hopeful but stay tuned. Also wonder what is happening with the drug UCM765 which targets melatonin receptors. Last I heard it was being tested in Italy; does anyone have an update?

[rdh76]

I was told by a sleep doctor that I have had hyperarousal since childhood that interferes with my sleep. This drug seems to target that kind of wakefulness. However, given the recent experience of other newly introduced drugs for arthritis, diabetes, etc., I don't think I want to be one of the early adopters. I have a healthy cynicism of new drugs.

[Martin Reed]

To be honest, I am skeptical about this new drug. No doubt if it receives clearance it will make millions of dollars, though.

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