Jeffrey Panko NP Psychiatry · Patient education
Solriamfetol
Sunosi / Oral tablets
A guide for adults taking solriamfetol.
Follow the directions on your prescription and your provider's recommendations.
Formulations: Tablets are taken once on awakening. Kidney function determines dose limits; end-stage kidney disease makes treatment unsuitable.
What it is used for
Solriamfetol improves wakefulness in adults with excessive daytime sleepiness from narcolepsy or obstructive sleep apnea. It does not treat airway obstruction; continue CPAP or other prescribed apnea treatment.
How it works
It inhibits dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake, promoting wakefulness. The same signaling can increase pulse, blood pressure, or anxiety.
What to expect over time
Wakefulness can improve after a dose. Review daily functioning and residual sleepiness over follow-up visits; increased alertness alone does not guarantee driving safety.
Taking your medication
- Take when you wake, with or without food, at least nine hours before planned bedtime.
- Follow any instruction to split only the scored tablet.
- Do not double a missed dose or take a late dose near bedtime.
- Continue treatment for sleep apnea and allow adequate sleep.
When to get help
Emergency symptoms. Get emergency care for chest pain, stroke symptoms, collapse, severe allergy, or a seizure.
Prompt medical advice. Report hallucinations, mania, severe anxiety, or persistent palpitations promptly.
If you feel unsafe or have thoughts of self-harm, call 911 or go to an emergency department.
Possible side effects
- Headache, nausea, or dry mouth
- Reduced appetite
- Anxiety, irritability, or insomnia
- Increased pulse or blood pressure
Keeping track of treatment
Some side effects resolve with time; others may require a change of medication. Discuss persistent or bothersome side effects with your provider.
Control high blood pressure before starting and monitor it with pulse during treatment. Track appetite, weight, sleep, and mood. Misuse potential warrants secure storage.
If you take too much
For a suspected overdose, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 immediately, even if you feel well. Call 911 for a seizure, collapse, trouble breathing, or inability to wake.
Before you start
Discuss heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, kidney disease, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and substance use.
Discuss pregnancy, pregnancy plans, and breastfeeding with your provider. Treatment decisions should consider both the medication and the condition being treated.
Medicines and interactions
Review all your medications with your provider, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements. Have new medications checked before taking them.
Do not take with an MAOI or within 14 days after stopping one.
Other stimulants, decongestants, high caffeine intake, and dopamine-active medicines can add cardiovascular or psychiatric effects.
Everyday tips
Keep a steady sleep opportunity and symptom record.
Do not drive when sleepy or impaired.
Your questions answered
Can I stop CPAP once I feel better?
No. Solriamfetol does not correct obstructive sleep apnea.
Can I add an afternoon dose?
No. Review insufficient coverage or sleepiness with your provider.
Storage and safety
Keep medication in its labeled container, away from excess heat and moisture and out of reach of children and pets. Do not share it. Ask a pharmacy about disposal of unused medication.
Sources
About this information
Educational handout; does not replace your prescription or provider's recommendations.
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.