Sunosi (75mg/150mg): A Simple Guide

Sunosi is a prescription medication used to treat excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) in adults. It is commonly prescribed for people with conditions like narcolepsy or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This article will explain what Sunosi is, how it works, its dosages (75mg and 150mg), and important things to know before taking it. Written in easy English, this guide is designed to help you understand Sunosi better.

What is Sunosi?

Sunosi (generic name: solriamfetol) is a wakefulness-promoting medication. It helps people stay awake and alert during the day if they struggle with excessive sleepiness due to certain medical conditions. Sunosi is not a stimulant like caffeine or amphetamines, but it works on the brain to improve wakefulness.

How Does Sunosi Work?

Sunosi works by increasing the levels of two natural chemicals in the brain: dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals play a key role in regulating wakefulness and attention. By boosting their activity, Sunosi helps reduce daytime sleepiness and improves focus.

Who Can Take Sunosi?

Sunosi is approved for adults (18 years and older) who experience excessive daytime sleepiness due to:

1. Narcolepsy: A sleep disorder that causes sudden sleep attacks.
2. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): A condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep, leading to poor sleep quality and daytime tiredness.

If you have been diagnosed with either of these conditions, your doctor may prescribe Sunosi to help you stay awake and alert during the day.

Sunosi Dosages: 75mg and 150mg

Sunosi comes in two strengths: 75mg and 150mg. Your doctor will decide the right dose for you based on your condition and how you respond to the medication.

• 75mg: This is the starting dose for most people. It is often prescribed to see how well the medication works and to minimize side effects.
• 150mg: If the 75mg dose is not effective enough, your doctor may increase the dose to 150mg.

Always take Sunosi exactly as prescribed. Do not change the dose or stop taking it without consulting your doctor.

How to Take Sunosi

• Take Sunosi once a day, in the morning.
• You can take it with or without food.
• Avoid taking Sunosi late in the day, as it may cause difficulty sleeping at night.
• Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Swallow it whole with water.

Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, Sunosi may cause side effects. Most side effects are mild and go away as your body adjusts to the medication. Common side effects include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Decreased appetite
• Trouble sleeping
• Dry mouth
• Anxiety or increased heart rate

If you experience severe side effects, such as chest pain, high blood pressure, or mood changes, contact your doctor immediately.

Precautions and Warnings

Before taking Sunosi, tell your doctor if you:

• Have a history of heart problems, high blood pressure, or mental health issues.
• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Are taking other medications, especially those that affect dopamine or norepinephrine levels.

Sunosi may interact with other drugs, so it’s important to share your full medical history with your doctor.

Is Sunosi Addictive?

Sunosi has a low risk of addiction compared to stimulant medications. However, it should still be taken only as prescribed. Do not take more than the recommended dose, as this can increase the risk of side effects or dependency.

Conclusion

Sunosi (75mg/150mg) is an effective medication for managing excessive daytime sleepiness caused by narcolepsy or obstructive sleep apnea. By improving wakefulness and focus, it can help you feel more alert and productive during the day. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and report any side effects or concerns. If you think Sunosi might be right for you, talk to your healthcare provider to learn more.