Using suvorexant to improve sleep in veterans with PTSD

Suvorexant: A Dual Orexin Receptor Antagonist for Treating Sleep Disturbance inPosttraumatic Stress

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VETERANS AFFAIRS MED CTR SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11121723

This study is looking at how a medication called suvorexant can help veterans with PTSD get better sleep and feel less anxious, by targeting the brain's sleep and memory systems.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVETERANS AFFAIRS MED CTR SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11121723 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of suvorexant, a medication that blocks orexin receptors, to alleviate sleep disturbances commonly experienced by veterans suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study aims to understand how this medication can improve sleep quality and reduce hyperarousal symptoms associated with PTSD. By focusing on the orexin neuropeptide system, which plays a role in both sleep regulation and emotional memory, the research seeks to provide a more effective treatment option compared to traditional sleep medications that often have undesirable side effects. Participants will be monitored for changes in sleep patterns and overall PTSD symptoms throughout the study.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans diagnosed with PTSD who experience significant sleep disturbances.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have PTSD or those whose sleep disturbances are not related to PTSD may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved sleep quality and reduced PTSD symptoms for veterans.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using orexin receptor antagonists for sleep disorders, suggesting potential success for this novel approach in PTSD treatment.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.