Caution Patients Belsomra Can Cause "Sleep Driving"

February 2015

You'll see a new insomnia med, Belsomra (bell-SOM-rah, suvorexant).

It's the first in a new class called orexin receptor antagonists.

Orexin neurotransmitters promote wakefulness...so blocking them can act as a temporary "shut-off" switch to help people sleep.

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Table of Contents

Vaccines Explain Antivirals Don't Help the Flu in Most Patients
Obesity & Weight Loss Reduce Insulin Doses if Saxenda is Used for Weight Loss in Diabetes
Opioids Watch for Hypoglycemia Right After Starting Tramadol
Cough & Cold Resist Temptation to Recommend OTC Dextromethorphan or Guaifenesin for Cough
Med Administration Consider Using Some Eye Drops Sublingually
Neurology & Pain Recommend Increasing Power Gradually on OTC "TENS" Devices
Insomnia Caution Patients Belsomra Can Cause "Sleep Driving"
Menopause Avoid Soy Supplements in Women With Breast Cancer
Sickle Cell Disease Try a Progestin-Only Contraceptive for Sickle Cell Patients
Blood Pressure Tell Patients to Check Blood Pressure BEFORE Taking Their Meds
Hepatitis C Be Aware Viekira Still Needs to Be Used With Ribavirin
ADHD Add Atomoxetine for ADHD When Methylphenidate Isn't Enough
Practice Manage Postoperative Pain to Reduce Delirium Risk
Renal & Urology Use eGFR Instead of Cockcroft Gault for "Flozin" Dosing
Hemophilia Don't Use Obizur for Congenital Hemophilia A