Looking at the Future of Insomnia Management

EP: 1.Managing Insomnia: History, Comorbidities, and Clinical Insight

EP: 2.Building Consistency in Long-Term Management of Insomnia

EP: 3.Overview of DORA Class Medications for the Treatment of Insomnia

EP: 4.Counseling About Insomnia Medications Q6

EP: 5.From Trials to Treatment: Understanding the Treatment Profile of Daridorexant

EP: 6.Why Choose a DORA? Clinical Considerations for Patients With Insomnia

EP: 7.Clinical Perspectives on DORAs for Insomnia Management

EP: 8.Daridorexant and Next-Day Function: What Patients Are Reporting

Now Viewing

EP: 9.Looking at the Future of Insomnia Management

Looking ahead, dual orexin receptor antagonists (DORAs) are expected to become a first-line option for treating chronic insomnia, especially as the population ages. A 40-week clinical trial demonstrated the safety and tolerability of daridorexant in patients aged 65 and older, who made up nearly 42% of the study group. This data is compelling as the medical community seeks safer alternatives for elderly patients. DORAs appear to address insomnia without the risk of memory issues, falls, or addiction, which are associated with other sleep aids like GABA agents.

Moreover, reassuring evidence shows that daridorexant does not appear to cause withdrawal symptoms, as demonstrated in trials assessing benzodiazepine withdrawal. The hope is that, in the future, insurance companies will recognize the long-term safety and effectiveness of DORAs, leading to increased access as a first-line treatment. These medications may replace higher-risk alternatives, offering a safer and more tolerable choice for patients with chronic insomnia.

For physicians treating chronic insomnia, it is essential to educate patients about how daridorexant works and potential adverse effects. It is important to set realistic expectations, as the benefits of the medication improve over time. Along with medication, addressing other sleep-related factors and maintaining regular follow-up with patients are key to successful treatment. Positive outcomes in practice suggest that DORAs may be a valuable option for many patients with chronic insomnia.