QUVIVIQ
Category:Sleep Help (Insomnia)QUVIVIQ® (daridorexant) is a prescription-only medication used to help adults who struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep due to insomnia.
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Frequently Asked Questions for QUVIVIQ
Further Information
What It Is
QUVIVIQ® is a modern sleep aid designed for people with chronic insomnia. Unlike older sedative medications, it works by targeting your brain's natural wake signals rather than just inducing sleep. It helps support a natural, uninterrupted night’s rest without feeling overly sedated the next day.
How It Works
QUVIVIQ® blocks a brain chemical called orexin, which is responsible for keeping you awake. By reducing this wakefulness signal, it helps you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and improves your quality of sleep—without disrupting your natural sleep rhythm.
How to Administer
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The recommended dose is 50 mg, taken once per night within 30 minutes before going to bed.
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Some patients may be prescribed 25 mg instead, depending on individual needs.
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Only take QUVIVIQ® if you can remain in bed for at least 7 hours.
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Do not take the tablet if you’ve missed your usual bedtime dose.
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Swallow tablets whole—do not chew or crush.
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Avoid grapefruit juice in the evening, as it may affect how the medicine works.
Side Effects
Common side effects include:
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Headache
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Sleepiness or daytime fatigue
Other possible reactions (mainly early in treatment) may include:
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Sleep paralysis
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Vivid dreams or hallucinations when falling asleep or waking
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Brief episodes of leg weakness
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Unusual sleep-related behaviours (e.g., sleepwalking, sleep-driving, eating or making phone calls while not fully awake)
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Mood changes, including worsening depression or suicidal thoughts
Always report any concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider.
Warnings and Precautions
Do not take QUVIVIQ® if you:
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Have narcolepsy
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Are allergic to daridorexant or any of its ingredients
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Are using strong CYP3A4 inhibitors
Use with caution if you:
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Are over 75 years old (limited data available)
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Have mental health conditions or a history of depression
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Experience muscle weakness or sleep-related movement disorders
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Have liver problems
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Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Avoid:
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Alcohol while on QUVIVIQ®
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Operating machinery, driving, or any dangerous tasks unless you're fully alert
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Combining with other sleep-inducing medicines unless advised by your doctor