Belsomra is a relatively new sleeping medication that has been gaining traction in the medical field for its effectiveness in treating insomnia. But is it a benzodiazepine? It’s an important question to ask, as benzodiazepines are associated with a range of side effects and potential risks. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of what Belsomra is, the differences between it and benzodiazepines, and the potential risks associated with taking the medication.
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Belsomra (suvorexant) is not a benzodiazepine. Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs used for various medical conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, muscle spasms, and seizures. They work by increasing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Belsomra belongs to a class of medicines called orexin receptor antagonists, which work differently than benzodiazepines to help people stay asleep.
What is Belsomra?
Belsomra is a prescription sleep aid medication. It is a type of drug known as an orexin receptor antagonist. This means it works by blocking the action of a naturally occurring brain chemical called orexin. Orexin helps to regulate wakefulness and sleep. By blocking orexin, Belsomra helps to promote sleep.
Belsomra is used to treat insomnia, a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. It is the first FDA-approved medication specifically developed to treat insomnia. It has been found to improve sleep quality and reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep.
What is a Benzodiazepine?
Benzodiazepines are a class of medications used to treat a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, muscle spasms, and seizures. They work by altering the activity of certain brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. This helps to reduce anxiety, induce sleep, and relax muscles.
Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed for anxiety and sleeping disorders, and are considered safe and effective when used as directed. However, they can be habit-forming and may cause side effects such as drowsiness, confusion, and memory problems. Long-term use may also lead to dependence.
Is Belsomra a Benzodiazepine?
No, Belsomra is not a benzodiazepine. It is an orexin receptor antagonist, meaning it works by blocking the action of a naturally occurring brain chemical called orexin. Orexin helps to regulate wakefulness and sleep. By blocking orexin, Belsomra helps to promote sleep.
In contrast, benzodiazepines are a class of medications used to treat a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, muscle spasms, and seizures. They work by altering the activity of certain brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. This helps to reduce anxiety, induce sleep, and relax muscles.
How Does Belsomra Work?
Belsomra works by blocking the action of orexin, a naturally occurring brain chemical. Orexin helps to regulate wakefulness and sleep. By blocking orexin, Belsomra helps to promote sleep.
Belsomra is taken orally before bedtime. It works quickly and has been found to improve sleep quality and reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. It is generally well tolerated and side effects are usually mild and short-lived.
What are Possible Side Effects?
The most common side effects of Belsomra include headache, dizziness, and fatigue. Other less common side effects may include nausea, dry mouth, and constipation.
Belsomra can also cause drowsiness, so it should not be taken while driving or operating heavy machinery. It can also cause memory problems, so it should be used with caution in people with a history of memory loss.
Who Should Not Take Belsomra?
Belsomra is not recommended for people with certain medical conditions, including severe liver or kidney disease, sleep apnea, or a history of depression. It should also not be taken with other medications that cause drowsiness, such as benzodiazepines.
It is important to talk to your doctor before taking Belsomra to make sure it is safe for you. Your doctor can advise you on the best treatment for your insomnia.
Top 6 Frequently Asked Questions
Is Belsomra a Benzodiazepine?
No, Belsomra is not a benzodiazepine. Belsomra is a novel, non-benzodiazepine sleep medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as orexin receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the effects of orexin, a chemical messenger that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle in your body. Belsomra is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep.
How Does Belsomra Work?
Belsomra works by blocking the action of orexin, a chemical messenger in the brain that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Belsomra prevents orexin from binding with orexin receptors, which helps promote sleepiness and reduce wakefulness. As a result, Belsomra can help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer and wake up feeling more refreshed.
What Are the Side Effects of Belsomra?
The most common side effects of Belsomra include headache, drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, and fatigue. Less common side effects include nausea, constipation, abdominal pain, and somnolence. As with any medication, you should speak to your doctor if you experience any of these side effects.
Is Belsomra Addictive?
No, Belsomra is not addictive. Belsomra is a non-benzodiazepine sleep medication, and is not considered to be habit-forming. However, you should never take more than the prescribed dose and should only take Belsomra as directed by your doctor.
What Are the Benefits of Taking Belsomra?
Belsomra can help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer and wake up feeling more refreshed. It can also help reduce the number of times you wake up during the night and improve the overall quality of your sleep. Taking Belsomra can also help reduce daytime sleepiness associated with insomnia.
When Should Belsomra Not Be Used?
Belsomra should not be used by people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or by people who are taking other medications that can interact with Belsomra, such as certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications. In addition, Belsomra should not be used by people who have certain medical conditions, such as kidney or liver disease, or by those who have a history of drug or alcohol abuse. Always speak to your doctor before taking any medication.
Belsomra
In conclusion, Belsomra is not a benzodiazepine. While it has properties that are similar to benzodiazepines, it is classified as a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic drug and works differently in the body. Belsomra is an effective treatment for insomnia, but it is important to talk to your doctor before starting this or any other medication.
