Tasimelteon

How is Tasimelteon dosed?

Tasimelteon is available in both suspension and capsule forms.

Tasimelteon Suspension: Shake the bottle well before each use. Measure the dose accurately using the provided measuring device. The recommended dose is 16 mg taken once daily.

Tasimelteon Capsule (Hetlioz): Swallow the capsule whole. The recommended dose is 20 mg taken once daily.

Please note that these dosage instructions may vary depending on the individual's medical condition, age, and response to treatment. It is essential to follow your healthcare professional's advice on dosing and any possible adjustments based on your specific situation. Remember to consult your doctor for medical advice about side effects or any questions you may have about the medication.

What is the dosage form of Tasimelteon?

Tasimelteon is available in both suspension and capsule forms.

For oral suspension, the dosage for nighttime sleep disturbances in SMS in children 3 to 15 years of age is based on body weight and must be determined by a doctor. For children weighing more than 28 kg, the dose is 20 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken 1 hour before bedtime. For children weighing 28 kg or less, the dose is 0.7 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) of body weight once a day, taken 1 hour before bedtime. For children younger than 3 years of age, the use and dose must be determined by a doctor. For adults, the recommended dose is 20 mg taken once a day, 1 hour before bedtime.

How is Tasimelteon administered?

Tasimelteon can be administered as a suspension or a capsule.

For the suspension, shake the bottle for at least 30 seconds before each use, measure the correct dose using the provided oral dosing syringe, and give it without food, at the same time every night.

For the capsule, take it whole, not crushing, breaking, or chewing it, at the same time each night as directed by your doctor.

What are common precautions when taking Tasimelteon?

Common precautions when taking tasimelteon include:

1. Consulting your healthcare professional: Before taking tasimelteon, it's essential to discuss your medical history, allergies, and other medications you are currently taking.

2. Taking as directed: Follow your doctor's instructions on the dosage and frequency of taking tasimelteon. Take the medicine at the same time every night and swallow the capsule whole, without crushing, breaking, or chewing it.

3. Avoiding alcohol: Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of tasimelteon and lead to excessive drowsiness. It's advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medication.

4. Observing potential side effects: Be aware of common side effects such as headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, abnormal dreams, dry mouth, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia, and drowsiness. If you experience any other side effects, consult your healthcare professional.

5. Monitoring elderly patients: Elderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects. Therefore, close monitoring is advised for elderly individuals taking tasimelteon.

6. Breastfeeding considerations: The safety and efficacy of tasimelteon use in breastfeeding women have not been established. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the medication while breastfeeding.

7. Drug interactions: Inform your healthcare professional about any other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as there might be potential drug interactions.

8. Age-related considerations: The appropriate use of tasimelteon in pediatric patients has not been established. Safety and efficacy have not been established for children under 3 years old with nighttime sleep disturbances.

Follow these precautions to ensure the safe and effective use of tasimelteon.