Key facts about Tasimelteon
What dosages is Tasimelteon available in?
Tasimelteon is available as a 20 mg oral capsule.
What is Tasimelteon used for?
Tasimelteon is a melatonin receptor agonist used to treat:
- Non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder (non-24)
- Nighttime sleep disturbances in Smith-Magenis Syndrome (SMS)
How does Tasimelteon work?
Tasimelteon is a melatonin receptor agonist which means that it acts like melatonin. Melatonin is a natural hormone that your body makes when it’s dark to help maintain a normal sleeping cycle. The exact way in which Tasimelteon works is not known. It’s thought that because Tasimelteon works like melatonin, it can regulate your sleep by helping you sleep at night and stay awake during the day.
How do I take Tasimelteon?
The recommended dosage of Tasimelteon in adults is 20 mg one hour before bedtime, at the same time every night.
Is it safe for me to take Tasimelteon?
Tasimelteon is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.
Tasimelteon Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Tasimelteon:
- Headache
- Abnormal liver tests
- Nightmares or abnormal dreams
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Urinary tract infection
Tasimelteon Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Tasimelteon.
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Tasimelteon
The following medications may interact with Tasimelteon:
- Strong CYP1A2 Inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine): Avoid use of Tasimelteon in combination with fluvoxamine or other strong CYP1A2 inhibitors because of a potentially large increase in Tasimelteon exposure and greater risk of adverse reactions
- Strong CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., rifampin): Avoid use of Tasimelteon in combination with rifampin or other CYP3A4 inducers because of a potentially large decrease in Tasimelteon exposure with reduced efficacy
- Beta-Adrenergic Receptor Antagonists (e.g., acebutolol, metoprolol): Beta-adrenergic receptor antagonists have been shown to reduce the production of melatonin via specific inhibition of beta-1 adrenergic receptors Nighttime administration of beta-adrenergic receptor antagonists may reduce the efficacy of Tasimelteon
Who makes Tasimelteon?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Tasimelteon safe in pregnancy?
It is not known if Tasimelteon can harm your unborn baby. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
