Why is this medication prescribed?

Daridorexant is a medication used to treat insomnia. It is a dual orexin receptor antagonist, and orexin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in regulating wakefulness and sleep. Daridorexant works by blocking the action of orexin, which may help promote sleep.

How should this medicine be used?

As for the usage of Daridorexant, it’s essential to follow the prescribing doctor’s instructions and the information provided on the medication label. Typically, Daridorexant is taken orally, and the recommended dosage and timing will depend on the specific needs of the individual. It’s usually taken just before bedtime.

If you have been prescribed Daridorexant or any other medication, it’s important to:

• Follow the Prescribed Dosage: Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not increase or decrease the dosage without consulting your doctor.
• Take it at the Right Time: Daridorexant is usually taken just before bedtime. Follow the specific timing instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some medications or substances, including alcohol, may interact with Daridorexant.
• Be Aware of Side Effects: Like any medication, Daridorexant may have side effects. Common side effects may include headache, somnolence (sleepiness), and dizziness. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
• Do Not Abruptly Stop the Medication: If you need to discontinue Daridorexant, consult your healthcare provider. Abruptly stopping certain medications can have adverse effects.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your health condition and medical history. If you have specific questions about Daridorexant or any other medication, it’s best to reach out to your prescribing doctor or pharmacist for the most accurate and current information.

Other uses for this medicine

Daridorexant is primarily prescribed for the treatment of insomnia. However, it’s important to note that medications can be used off-label for other purposes, and new information may have emerged since then. Always consult with a healthcare professional for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Daridorexant, it’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s guidance, and the information provided with the medication. Here are some general precautions that might be relevant:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The potential risks and benefits of using Daridorexant during pregnancy or while breastfeeding should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
• Drug Interactions: Provide a complete list of all medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as supplements, that you are currently taking. Some medications may interact with Daridorexant, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Alcohol and Sedatives: Daridorexant can cause drowsiness, so it’s important to avoid alcohol and other sedatives while taking this medication. Combining Daridorexant with substances that cause drowsiness can increase the risk of excessive sedation.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Due to the potential for drowsiness, caution should be exercised when engaging in activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. Discuss with your healthcare provider whether it is safe for you to engage in such activities while taking Daridorexant.
• Liver Function: Daridorexant is metabolized by the liver, so individuals with liver impairment may require dose adjustments. Inform your healthcare provider if you have any liver conditions.
• Allergies: If you have a known allergy to Daridorexant or any of its components, inform your healthcare provider.

Always take Daridorexant exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and do not adjust the dosage without consulting them. If you experience any concerning side effects or have questions about the medication, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

For the most accurate and personalized information, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist who can provide advice based on your specific health condition and medical history.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There were no specific dietary instructions associated with Daridorexant. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist to ensure that there have been no updates or changes.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take It as Soon as Possible: If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s close to the time of your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
• Do Not Double Dose: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Taking more than the prescribed amount can increase the risk of side effects.
• Consult Your Healthcare Provider: If you are unsure about what to do or if you miss multiple doses, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Daridorexant, like any medication, can cause side effects. It’s important to be aware of potential side effects and report any unusual or severe symptoms to your healthcare provider. Keep in mind that individual responses to medications can vary, and not everyone will experience the same side effects. Common side effects of Daridorexant may include:

• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches as a side effect of Daridorexant.
• Somnolence (Sleepiness): Daridorexant can cause drowsiness, so it’s important to be cautious when engaging in activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
• Dizziness: Dizziness is another potential side effect. Changes in posture, such as getting up from a sitting or lying position, may increase the risk of dizziness.

It’s important to note that these are not exhaustive lists, and other side effects may occur. Additionally, the severity and duration of side effects can vary from person to person. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider.

In some cases, serious side effects may occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Allergic Reactions: Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Mood Changes: Daridorexant may affect mood, leading to symptoms such as agitation, aggression, or hallucinations. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience significant changes in mood or behavior.
• Complex Sleep Behaviors: Rarely, medications for sleep may be associated with complex sleep behaviors, such as sleepwalking, sleep driving, or other activities performed while not fully awake. If you experience unusual behavior during sleep, notify your healthcare provider.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and it’s crucial to consult the medication’s prescribing information or your healthcare provider for the most comprehensive and up-to-date information.

If you have any concerns about the side effects of Daridorexant or if you experience any unexpected symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance based on your individual health status and determine the appropriate course of action.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage of Daridorexant:

• Room Temperature: Store Daridorexant at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store medications in a location that is out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Avoid Sunlight: Some medications are sensitive to light, so it’s advisable to keep Daridorexant in its original packaging or a container that protects it from light.
• Follow Specific Instructions: Always follow any specific storage instructions provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.

Disposal of Daridorexant:

• Check for Take-Back Programs: Some communities offer drug take-back programs, allowing you to safely dispose of unused medications. Check with your local pharmacy or law enforcement for information on available programs.
• Guidance from Healthcare Provider: Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about the appropriate way to dispose of Daridorexant if a take-back program is not available.
• Do Not Flush: Avoid flushing medications down the toilet unless specific instructions advise doing so.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of a suspected overdose or emergency, contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical attention immediately. Be prepared to provide information on the type and amount of medication ingested.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Prescribed Dosage: Take Daridorexant exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not alter the dosage without consulting your healthcare professional.
• Inform Healthcare Provider: Keep your healthcare provider informed about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Regular Follow-ups: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Daridorexant and discuss any concerns or side effects.
• Caution with Alcohol: Avoid alcohol while taking Daridorexant, as it can enhance the sedative effects of the medication.
• Avoid Driving and Machinery: Daridorexant may cause drowsiness, so use caution when driving or operating machinery.

Always consult the specific product information provided with Daridorexant or your healthcare provider for the most accurate and up-to-date instructions. If you have specific concerns or questions, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.