We already have a comprehensive list of sleeping pills and soon we'll probably be adding one more: Suvorexant.
Suvorexant is currently an experimental drug and the latest trial results were announced recently.
In a study of 1,000 insomniacs who took the drug over a three month period, participants reported that they fell asleep almost 26 minutes quicker compared to the placebo group who fell asleep 17 minutes quicker.
Those taking Suvorexant slept for just over an hour longer than normal, compared to the placebo group who reported sleeping for approximately 41 minutes longer.
Suvorexant would slot into a new category of sleeping pills since it's an orexin receptor antagonist - basically, it works by targeting orexins which are chemical messengers that originate in the hypothalamus (part of the brain that influences sleep).
So far, no major side-effects have been reported although about 7% of participants reported headaches.
We're likely to see Merck apply for FDA approval for Suvorexant later this year. We'll keep you updated.
Source: WebMD
Improve your sleep in two weeks: Over 5,000 insomniacs have completed my free insomnia sleep training course and 97% of graduates say they would recommend it to a friend. Learn more here.
Last updated: June 14, 2012
