thoughtscape NP Psychiatry · Patient education
Solriamfetol
Sunosi • a medicine for daytime sleepiness
Helps you stay awake during the day. It does not replace enough sleep or treatment for sleep apnea.
Draft for review · Clinical content has not been revalidated for this website.
TAAR1 / 5-HT1A diagram findings are from laboratory studies; separate benefits in people are not established.
What it is used for
Treats excessive daytime sleepiness related to narcolepsy or obstructive sleep apnea in adults.
For sleep apnea, use your breathing treatment for at least a month before starting and continue it. This medicine does not open your airway.
How it works
Dopamine and norepinephrine help the brain stay awake. Solriamfetol slows their recycling, which may strengthen those signals.
The goal is better daytime functioning. Feeling more awake does not prove that it is safe to drive or that your sleep disorder is cured.
What to expect over time
FIRST WEEK
Some people notice less sleepiness. Your team will also watch blood pressure and early side effects.
NEXT FEW WEEKS
Your prescriber may adjust the dose. Kidney problems can mean a lower limit and slower changes.
ONGOING
Keep tracking sleepiness, sleep habits, and daily functioning. Continue apnea treatment if prescribed.
Taking your medication
Take your prescribed dose once when you wake up, with or without food. Leave at least nine hours before your planned bedtime.
Only split the scored 75 mg tablet if your prescription calls for a half tablet. Ask your pharmacist to show you how.
Do not increase the dose, add another dose later, or use someone else's medicine. Follow your own written schedule.
When to get help
Get prompt help: a racing heartbeat, new hallucinations, unusually high energy with little sleep, severe anxiety, or major behavior changes.
Call 911: chest pain, stroke symptoms, collapse, severe breathing trouble, face/throat swelling, or immediate self-harm danger.
Too much medicine? Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 now. Do not wait for symptoms.
Early side effects
Headache, nausea, dry mouth, stomach upset, less appetite, anxiety, or trouble sleeping may occur. Tell your team if they persist or interfere with your day.
Other effects to discuss
Report ongoing jitteriness, palpitations, weight loss, or irritability. Do not take more to overcome poor sleep or add a sleep aid without checking first.
What to keep track of
Keep blood-pressure and pulse checks. Track sleep, appetite, and daytime sleepiness. Do not drive while sleepy; ask before returning to activities you previously avoided.
Before you start
Tell your team about high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, bipolar disorder, psychosis, substance-use concerns, allergies, pregnancy or breastfeeding. Bring a complete list of medicines and supplements, including nonprescription products.
Medicines & interactions
MAO inhibitors
Do not take solriamfetol with an MAOI or within 14 days after stopping one. These medicines can be used for depression or Parkinson's disease. Ask your pharmacist if unsure.
Other activating products
Check stimulants, decongestants, energy products, and caffeine with your team. Combining them may worsen racing heart, blood pressure, anxiety, or sleep.
Dopamine-related medicines
Medicines such as levodopa or amantadine may add unwanted activating effects. Your prescriber needs to review the combination.
Sleep medicines and alcohol
These can add to daytime sleepiness. Solriamfetol does not cancel their effects or make impaired driving safe. Discuss your actual use honestly.
Everyday tips
Keep enough time for sleep and a steady schedule.
Continue CPAP or other prescribed apnea care.
Keep a simple record of unintended sleep episodes.
Use safe transportation when sleepy.
Your questions, answered
What if I miss a dose?
Take it when remembered only if at least nine hours remain before bedtime. Otherwise skip it and resume the next day. Never double up.
Can I stop when I feel better?
Talk with your prescriber first. Sleepiness can return, affecting driving, or work. Your team can help plan a change safely.
What about pregnancy?
Contact your prescriber if pregnant or planning pregnancy. Safety information is limited. Discuss treatment options and the Sunosi pregnancy registry.
Can I breastfeed?
The medicine enters breast milk. Discuss benefits and risks with your team. If breastfeeding during treatment, watch the baby for poor sleep, agitation, or poor weight gain.
Storage & safety
Keep in its closed original container at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Store securely away from children and pets; never share. Use a pharmacy take-back program for leftovers.
About this information
For general information only; not a substitute for individualized medical advice. This sheet does not cover every risk or interaction. Ask your prescriber or pharmacist before changing how you take this medication.
Sources
Educational inclusion does not mean this medication or its indications are treated at this practice. Review the guide for your exact product with your prescriber or pharmacist.