Compare Belsomra vs. Silenor

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Helps you sleep.

Belsomra (suvorexant) helps you fall asleep, but is only avaliable as a brand name so can be expensive.

Helps you relax, and sleep.

Doxepin is a non-addictive way to help people stay asleep, but it comes with a list of side effects.

Upsides
  • May be helpful if other sleep aids don't work.
  • Works quickly, especially on an empty stomach.
  • Might be a good option for the elderly.
  • In a clinical trial Doxepin was able to significantly improve sleep quality.
  • Doxepin helps improve your appetite, energy level, and sense of well-being, which increases your interests.
  • Once your body gets used to Doxepin, most of the side effects go away.
  • Doxepin comes in a generic form, so it is pretty cheap.
  • Doxepin is not addictive.
Downsides
  • Not usually used for long-term treatment since it can be habit-forming.
  • Belsomra (suvorexant) is likely expensive since it's only available as a brand name, but coupon savings program could be available.
  • Not recommended if you do not plan to sleep for at least 7 hours.
  • Belsomra (suvorexant) may cause sleep paralysis.
  • Some people taking Doxepin walk, drive, eat, and have sex while sleeping. Be sure to tell your doctor if this happens to you.
  • Doxepin can increase your appetite, leading to weight gain.
  • Taking Doxepin can make emptying your bladder difficult.
  • Some people have suicidal thoughts when taking Doxepin.
  • Doxepin can interact with many different medications, vitamins, and alternative treatments.
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Used for
  • Alcoholism - Anxiety - Depression Anxiety - Depression Anxiety - Depression - Psychoneurotic personality disorder Insomnia Pruritus (Moderate)
  • Due to atopic dermatitis or lichen simplex chronicus
  • Urticaria
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Pill
  • Liquid
Price
Lowest price
$337.73
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Lowest price
$10.46
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Reviews
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Side effects
8possible side effects
  • Headache
    7%
  • Sleepiness
    7%
  • Dizziness
    3%
  • Diarrhea
    2%
  • Dry mouth
    2%
  • Cold and flu
    2%
  • Abnormal dreams
    2%
  • Cough
    2%
See more detailed side effects
The Silenor (Doxepin) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
Risks and risk factors
  • Changes in thoughts
    • Uncontrolled psychiatric conditions
    • Alcohol
    • Other medicines that make you sleepy or dizzy
  • Hangover effect
    • Alcohol
    • Taking other medicines that make you less alert
    • Less than 7 hours of sleep after taking Belsomra (suvorexant)
  • Dependence and withdrawal
    • Continuous use for 2 weeks or more
  • Depression
    • Risk increases with dose
    • Past history of depression
  • Difficulty breathing
    • Sleep apnea
    • COPD
  • Sleep paralysis
See more detailed risks and warnings
No information currently available
Learn more about Belsomra (suvorexant)
Learn more about Silenor (Doxepin)