Using Lemborexant to treat insomnia in patients with dementia

Lemborexant for Insomnia in a Patient With Dementia: An N-of-1 Trial

Phase 4 Interventional Nova Scotia Health Authority · NCT06093126

This study is testing if a new sleep medication called lemborexant can help people with early-onset dementia sleep better without causing the usual side effects of other sleep aids.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment1 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorNova Scotia Health Authority Academic / other
Locations1 site (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
Trial IDNCT06093126 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of lemborexant, a dual orexin receptor antagonist, in treating insomnia among patients with early-onset dementia. The study aims to address the challenges of using traditional sleeping aids, which can exacerbate cognitive impairment and other adverse effects in older adults. By focusing on a personalized approach, the trial evaluates how well lemborexant can improve sleep without the common side effects associated with conventional medications. Participants will receive a 5 MG dose of lemborexant to assess its impact on their insomnia symptoms.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with early-onset dementia who also experience significant insomnia.

Not a fit: Patients with known sleep disorders that contraindicate the use of orexin antagonist therapy may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could provide a safer and more effective option for managing insomnia in patients with dementia.

How similar studies have performed: While lemborexant is a newer treatment, similar approaches using dual orexin receptor antagonists have shown promise in other populations, suggesting potential for success in this context.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Identified by clinician investigator to have early-onset dementia and a significant component of insomnia.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Known sleep disorders that are contraindications for orexin antagonist therapy.

Where this trial is running

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions InsomniaDementiaFrontotemporal Dementia
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.