Suvorexant for Cannabis Use Disorder

This trial explores whether suvorexant, a medication typically used for insomnia, can affect brain activity in frequent cannabis users. Researchers aim to determine if suvorexant can reduce activity in brain areas associated with cannabis use. Participants will take suvorexant for 14 days and undergo two brain scans to detect changes. The trial seeks individuals who have used cannabis daily or almost daily for at least a year and meet the criteria for cannabis use disorder. As a Phase 4 trial, suvorexant is already FDA-approved and proven effective, and this research seeks to understand how it can benefit more patients.

The trial does not specify if you must stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you are using medications that affect the central nervous system or certain other drugs. It's best to discuss your current medications with the study team.

Research has shown that suvorexant is generally well-tolerated. In one study where participants took suvorexant for a year, only 5% experienced serious side effects. This low percentage suggests that most people do not encounter major issues with the drug. The most common side effects were mild, such as drowsiness. Since the FDA approved suvorexant for treating insomnia, it has maintained a well-established safety record. This approval indicates its overall safety for treating sleep problems in humans.¹²³⁴⁵

Suvorexant is unique because it targets the orexin system, which plays a role in regulating sleep and wakefulness. Unlike traditional treatments for cannabis use disorder, which often focus on behavioral therapy or medications that manage withdrawal symptoms, suvorexant offers a novel approach by potentially addressing sleep disturbances that are common in individuals with cannabis use disorder. Researchers are excited about suvorexant's potential not only because it offers a different mechanism of action but also because it could provide quicker relief from sleep-related issues, a significant challenge for people trying to quit cannabis.

Research shows that suvorexant, a medication approved for treating insomnia, might help reduce brain activity related to cannabis use. Earlier studies found that suvorexant improves sleep and eases withdrawal symptoms in people reducing opioid use. Although intended for sleep problems, researchers believe it might aid in cannabis use disorder by calming certain brain areas. This calming effect might reduce the urge to use cannabis. While more research is needed specifically for cannabis use, its success in other conditions is promising. Participants in this trial will receive suvorexant to explore its potential benefits for cannabis use disorder.¹³⁴⁶⁷