Orexins and daridorexant: A new medication for the treatment of insomnia – A narrative review

Insomnia, a common sleep disorder, affects approximately 30% of the population and is regularly associated with significant comorbidities, including cardiovascular disease and psychiatric disorders. Traditional treatments for insomnia have been effective but linked to significant side effects and issues with dependence. Daridorexant is a dual orexin receptor antagonist which represents a new class of medication that targets the orexin system. Clinical trials have already demonstrated daridorexant’s ability to improve sleep onset, maintenance, and next day functioning with fewer side effects than current treatments. There is also low potential for abuse which makes it a promising alternative. Daridorexant is available in 25 mg or 50 mg tablets, one of which is to be taken each day. Caution should be taken around drug interactions. Longer term studies show promise and further research should be undertaken in further developing orexin pathway modulators.