Major Research Findings

Lemborexant is a dual orexin receptor antagonist used to treat insomnia. 2 compared the efficacy and safety of lemborexant 5mg and 10mg, finding both doses more effective than placebo. 5 examined the effectiveness of switching from suvorexant to lemborexant in insomnia patients, confirming sleep improvement. 3 reported improved cognitive function in psychiatric patients after switching from benzodiazepines to orexin receptor antagonists (suvorexant and lemborexant). 6 confirmed that lemborexant did not cause respiratory depression in healthy subjects. 1 demonstrated the effectiveness of lemborexant in improving sleep disturbances and reducing pain in chronic pain patients.

Reasons for Side Effects

Lemborexant is an orexin receptor antagonist, and orexin is a neurotransmitter involved in wakefulness and appetite. Lemborexant blocks these actions by binding to orexin receptors, promoting sleep. However, orexin is also involved in other neural activities, so lemborexant can cause side effects such as drowsiness and fatigue.

Common Side Effects

Drowsiness

Drowsiness is the most common side effect of lemborexant. It is reported in studies such as 2 , 5 , and 3 . This is because lemborexant has a suppressing effect on wakefulness.

Fatigue

Lemborexant can cause side effects such as fatigue. It is reported in studies such as 2 and 5 . This is because lemborexant may lower energy levels.

Dizziness

Lemborexant can cause dizziness. It is reported in studies such as 2 and 5 . This is because lemborexant can affect balance.

Headache

Lemborexant can cause headaches. It is reported in studies such as 2 and 5 . This is because lemborexant may dilate blood vessels.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Lemborexant can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, and nausea. It is reported in studies such as 2 and 5 . This is because lemborexant can affect gastrointestinal function.

Respiratory Depression

While there have been reports of lemborexant potentially causing respiratory depression, 6 showed that lemborexant did not cause respiratory depression in healthy subjects.

Side Effect Countermeasures

Drowsiness

To reduce drowsiness, avoid driving or operating dangerous machinery for at least 8 hours after taking lemborexant. It is reported in studies such as 2 , 5 , and 3 . If necessary, consult your doctor to adjust the dosage.

Fatigue

To reduce fatigue, get enough rest and maintain a healthy diet. It is reported in studies such as 2 and 5 . If necessary, consult your doctor to adjust the dosage.

Dizziness

If you feel dizzy, rise slowly and be aware of your surroundings. It is reported in studies such as 2 and 5 . Consult your doctor if necessary.

Headache

If you have a severe headache, consult your doctor. It is reported in studies such as 2 and 5 .

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

If you have concerns about gastrointestinal symptoms, consult your doctor. It is reported in studies such as 2 and 5 .

Comparison of Research Studies

Common Points

Multiple studies have shown that lemborexant is effective in treating insomnia. Additionally, it has been confirmed that lemborexant can cause side effects such as drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, headache, and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Differences

The effectiveness and side effects of lemborexant may vary depending on the individual patient. 2 compared the efficacy and safety of lemborexant 5mg and 10mg, finding both doses more effective than placebo. 5 examined the effectiveness of switching from suvorexant to lemborexant in insomnia patients, confirming sleep improvement. 3 reported improved cognitive function in psychiatric patients after switching from benzodiazepines to orexin receptor antagonists (suvorexant and lemborexant). 6 confirmed that lemborexant did not cause respiratory depression in healthy subjects. 1 demonstrated the effectiveness of lemborexant in improving sleep disturbances and reducing pain in chronic pain patients.

Cautions for Real-Life Applications

Lemborexant can be effective as a treatment for insomnia. However, as it can cause side effects like drowsiness, avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery for at least 8 hours after taking it. Additionally, lemborexant can interact with other medications, so consult with your doctor before taking it.

Limitations of Current Research

Research on lemborexant is still in its early stages, and there are many unknowns regarding its long-term effects. It is not necessarily effective for all patients. The appropriate treatment for each individual should be determined in consultation with a doctor.

Future Research Directions

Further research is necessary to investigate the long-term effects, safety, and effectiveness of lemborexant. Comparative studies between lemborexant and other insomnia treatments are also needed.

Conclusion

Lemborexant is a drug that may be effective in treating insomnia but can cause side effects like drowsiness. If you are considering taking lemborexant, consult your doctor.