Belsomra is a prescription medication used for the treatment of insomnia, which affects millions of people worldwide. Although it is considered an effective treatment, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects and risks associated with the drug. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Belsomra, including its side effects, cost, weight loss potential, horror stories, addiction potential, reviews, and dosages.
Belsomra Side Effects
The most common side effects associated with Belsomra are headache, drowsiness, and dizziness. Other potential side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and dry mouth. In rare cases, more serious side effects such as hallucinations and sleepwalking may occur. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider if any of these side effects are experienced.
Belsomra Cost
The cost of Belsomra can vary depending on factors such as insurance coverage and pharmacy location. Without insurance, the average cost of Belsomra can range from $400 to $500 for a 30-day supply. However, many insurance plans do cover Belsomra, which can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost for patients.
Belsomra Weight Loss
There is no evidence to suggest that Belsomra has a direct effect on weight loss. However, some patients have reported weight loss as a side effect of the drug. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider if unexpected weight loss is experienced while taking Belsomra.
Belsomra Horror Stories
There have been reports of unusual and potentially dangerous behaviors associated with Belsomra use, such as sleepwalking, driving, and even cooking while asleep. In some cases, these behaviors have resulted in serious injury or death. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider if any unusual behaviors are experienced while taking Belsomra.
Belsomra Death
While Belsomra is generally considered safe when taken as prescribed, there have been rare cases of death associated with the drug. In most cases, these deaths were the result of underlying medical conditions or overdose. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider if any concerns or questions about Belsomra are experienced.
Is Belsomra Addictive
Belsomra has a lower risk of addiction compared to other sleep aids such as benzodiazepines. However, it is still possible to develop a dependence on Belsomra if it is taken for a long period or in higher-than-recommended doses. It is important to follow a healthcare provider’s instructions when taking Belsomra.
Belsomra Reviews: The reviews for Belsomra are mixed, with some patients reporting significant improvement in their sleep patterns while others report little to no effect. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider about whether Belsomra is the right treatment option for individual needs.
Belsomra Dosages
The recommended starting dosage for Belsomra is 10 mg, taken once per night before bedtime. However, a healthcare provider may adjust the dosage based on individual needs. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and instructions for taking Belsomra.
Conclusion: While Belsomra can be an effective treatment for insomnia, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects, risks, and costs associated with the drug. Patients should speak with a healthcare provider about whether Belsomra is the right treatment option for their individual needs and follow the prescribed dosage and instructions for use.
Side effects of Belsomra
Belsomra (suvorexant) is a prescription medication used to treat insomnia by affecting certain brain chemicals that regulate sleep-wake cycles. Like all medications, Belsomra can have potential side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals might experience different effects. If you’re prescribed Belsomra, your healthcare provider will monitor you for any adverse reactions. Here are some common and less common side effects associated with Belsomra:
Common Side Effects: These side effects are more likely to occur and are generally not serious. They may include:
- Headache: A common side effect experienced by some individuals.
- Sleepiness or Drowsiness: Belsomra can cause drowsiness or a feeling of being overly tired during the day.
- Dizziness: Some people may experience dizziness, especially when getting up from a lying or sitting position.
- Nausea: A feeling of nausea or upset stomach can occur as a side effect.
- Difficulty Concentrating: Some individuals may find it harder to focus or concentrate the day after taking Belsomra.
- Abnormal Dreams: Changes in dream patterns, including vivid or unusual dreams, can occur.
Less Common Side Effects: These side effects are less likely to occur but are still possible:
- Anxiety: Some individuals might experience increased feelings of anxiety.
- Depression: In rare cases, Belsomra may trigger or worsen feelings of depression.
- Hallucinations: Hallucinations or seeing/hearing things that aren’t there can occur, although it’s uncommon.
- Sleep Paralysis: Sleep paralysis, a temporary inability to move or speak while falling asleep or waking up, is rare but has been reported.
- Memory Impairment: Some individuals may experience temporary memory impairment.
- Suicidal Thoughts: Like some other sleep medications, Belsomra has been associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts in some individuals.
It’s important to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting Belsomra. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh the benefits and risks of the medication and determine if it’s the right choice for your circumstances. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Belsomra, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Side effects of belsomra in the elderly
Elderly individuals may be more susceptible to certain side effects of medications, including Belsomra (suvorexant), due to changes in metabolism, organ function, and potential interactions with other medications they might be taking. It’s important to discuss the use of Belsomra with a healthcare provider, especially when considering its potential side effects in the elderly population. Here are some specific considerations and potential side effects of Belsomra in elderly individuals:
- Increased Sedation: Elderly individuals may be more sensitive to the sedative effects of Belsomra, leading to increased drowsiness and the risk of falls or accidents.
- Dizziness and Imbalance: The elderly are more prone to dizziness and balance issues, which can be exacerbated by Belsomra’s effects on the central nervous system.
- Cognitive Impairment: Belsomra can affect cognitive function, and this effect might be more pronounced in older individuals, leading to confusion or memory problems.
- Daytime Sleepiness: Belsomra can cause daytime sleepiness or drowsiness, which may be more concerning in the elderly population and impact their overall well-being.
- Interactions with Other Medications: Elderly individuals often take multiple medications for various health conditions. Belsomra may interact with other medications, potentially leading to adverse effects or reduced efficacy of one or more drugs.
- Metabolism and Elimination: Metabolic changes in elderly individuals might affect how Belsomra is processed and eliminated from the body, potentially leading to altered drug effects or increased risk of side effects.
- Fall Risk: The sedative effects of Belsomra can increase the risk of falls, which is already a concern in the elderly population due to age-related changes in balance and coordination.
- Respiratory Issues: Elderly individuals with respiratory conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), might be more sensitive to Belsomra’s effects on breathing.
- Renal or Hepatic Impairment: Elderly individuals are more likely to have impaired kidney or liver function, which can impact how Belsomra is metabolized and excreted.
Given these considerations, elderly individuals must consult their healthcare provider before using Belsomra or any other sleep medication. The healthcare provider will assess the individual’s overall health, medication regimen, and potential risks to determine whether Belsomra is a suitable option and if any adjustments need to be made. In some cases, alternative sleep strategies or treatments might be recommended to avoid unnecessary risks associated with medication use in the elderly.
Side effects of Belsomra 10 mg
Belsomra (suvorexant) is a prescription medication used to treat insomnia by affecting brain chemicals involved in sleep regulation. Like all medications, Belsomra can have potential side effects. The following are some common and less common side effects that may occur with a 10 mg dose of Belsomra:
Common Side Effects: These side effects are more likely to occur and are generally not serious. They may include:
- Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while taking Belsomra.
- Sleepiness or Drowsiness: Belsomra can cause daytime drowsiness or sleepiness, which might affect alertness.
- Dizziness: Some people may feel dizzy, especially when changing positions (e.g., standing up quickly).
- Fatigue: Feeling tired during the day can be a common side effect of Belsomra.
- Abnormal Dreams: Changes in dream patterns, including vivid or unusual dreams, can occur.
Less Common Side Effects: These side effects are less likely to occur but are still possible:
- Anxiety: In some individuals, Belsomra can lead to increased feelings of anxiety.
- Depression: While rare, Belsomra may trigger or worsen feelings of depression in some cases.
- Hallucinations: Hallucinations or seeing/hearing things that aren’t there can occur, although it’s uncommon.
- Sleep Paralysis: Sleep paralysis, a temporary inability to move or speak while falling asleep or waking up, is rare but has been reported.
- Memory Impairment: Some individuals may experience temporary memory impairment.
- Suicidal Thoughts: Like some other sleep medications, Belsomra has been associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts in some individuals.
It’s important to note that individual responses to medications can vary. While some people might experience side effects, others might not experience any at all. If you’re prescribed Belsomra, your healthcare provider will monitor you for any adverse reactions. Discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting the medication. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Belsomra, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Side effects of Belsomra 15 mg
Belsomra (suvorexant) is a prescription medication used to treat insomnia by affecting brain chemicals involved in sleep regulation. The higher dose of 15 mg of Belsomra may be prescribed in some cases if the lower doses are not effective. Like all medications, Belsomra can have potential side effects. Here are some common and less common side effects that may occur with a 15 mg dose of Belsomra:
Common Side Effects: These side effects are more likely to occur and are generally not serious. They may include:
- Sleepiness or Drowsiness: Belsomra can cause daytime drowsiness or sleepiness, which might affect alertness.
- Dizziness: Some people may feel dizzy, especially when changing positions (e.g., standing up quickly).
- Headache: Headaches can occur as a common side effect of Belsomra.
- Fatigue: Feeling tired during the day can be a common side effect.
- Abnormal Dreams: Changes in dream patterns, including vivid or unusual dreams, can occur.
Less Common Side Effects: These side effects are less likely to occur but are still possible:
- Anxiety: Some individuals might experience increased feelings of anxiety.
- Depression: While rare, Belsomra may trigger or worsen feelings of depression in some cases.
- Hallucinations: Hallucinations or seeing/hearing things that aren’t there can occur, although it’s uncommon.
- Sleep Paralysis: Sleep paralysis, a temporary inability to move or speak while falling asleep or waking up, is rare but has been reported.
- Memory Impairment: Some individuals may experience temporary memory impairment.
- Suicidal Thoughts: Like some other sleep medications, Belsomra has been associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts in some individuals.
It’s important to note that individual responses to medications can vary. While some people might experience side effects, others might not experience any at all. If you’re prescribed a higher dose of 15 mg Belsomra, your healthcare provider will monitor you for any adverse reactions. Discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting the medication. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Belsomra, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Side effects of Belsomra 20 mg
As of my last update in September 2021, the maximum recommended dose for Belsomra (suvorexant) is 20 mg. However, it’s important to note that dosages and guidelines may change over time, and it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for the most up-to-date information and recommendations regarding medication dosages.
When considering the side effects of a higher dose like 20 mg of Belsomra, similar side effects to lower doses could likely be experienced, but they might be more pronounced due to the increased dosage. Here are some common and less common side effects that could potentially occur with a higher dose of Belsomra:
Common Side Effects: These side effects are more likely to occur and are generally not serious. They may include:
- Sleepiness or Drowsiness: Belsomra can cause daytime drowsiness or sleepiness, which might affect alertness.
- Dizziness: Some people may feel dizzy, especially when changing positions (e.g., standing up quickly).
- Headache: Headaches can occur as a common side effect of Belsomra.
- Fatigue: Feeling tired during the day can be a common side effect.
- Abnormal Dreams: Changes in dream patterns, including vivid or unusual dreams, can occur.
Less Common Side Effects: These side effects are less likely to occur but are still possible:
- Anxiety: Some individuals might experience increased feelings of anxiety.
- Depression: While rare, Belsomra may trigger or worsen feelings of depression in some cases.
- Hallucinations: Hallucinations or seeing/hearing things that aren’t there can occur, although it’s uncommon.
- Sleep Paralysis: Sleep paralysis, a temporary inability to move or speak while falling asleep or waking up, is rare but has been reported.
- Memory Impairment: Some individuals may experience temporary memory impairment.
- Suicidal Thoughts: Like some other sleep medications, Belsomra has been associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts in some individuals.
It’s important to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting the dosage of Belsomra. They can provide personalized guidance based on your health status and needs. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Belsomra, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
FAQ’s
Q: What are the common side effects of Belsomra?
A: The common side effects of Belsomra include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth.
Q: How much does Belsomra cost?
A: The cost of Belsomra varies depending on the dosage and quantity. Generally, it can range from $300 to $500 for a month’s supply.
Q: Can Belsomra cause weight loss?
A: Weight loss is not a common side effect of Belsomra. However, if you experience unexplained weight loss while taking Belsomra, it is important to talk to your doctor.
Q: Are there any horror stories associated with Belsomra?
A: There are some reports of unusual sleep behaviors, such as sleepwalking or sleep-driving, associated with Belsomra. However, these are rare and usually occur when the medication is not taken as directed.
Q: Can Belsomra cause death?
A: While there have been no reported deaths specifically caused by Belsomra, any medication can have serious side effects and it is important to take it only as directed by your doctor.
Q: Is Belsomra addictive?
A: Belsomra can be habit-forming if taken in higher doses than prescribed or for longer than recommended. It is important to follow the dosage and duration guidelines given by your doctor.
Q: What are the reviews of Belsomra?
A: Reviews of Belsomra vary. Some people find it effective in treating their insomnia, while others have reported little to no improvement in their sleep. It is important to discuss your individual needs and concerns with your doctor.
Q: What is the maximum dosage of Belsomra?
A: The maximum recommended dosage of Belsomra is 20 mg per day. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the dosage and duration of treatment.
