A complete guide to Quviviq side effects in 2026. Learn about common and serious side effects, how long they last, and when to seek medical help.
Quviviq (Daridorexant) is a dual orexin receptor antagonist (DORA) approved for treating insomnia in adults. Like all medications, it can cause side effects — but knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and know when something needs medical attention.
This guide covers every side effect reported in clinical trials, how common each one is, how long they typically last, and the warning signs that mean you should call your doctor right away.
If you're still learning about this medication, start with our overview: What Is Quviviq?
In clinical trials, the following side effects were reported most frequently. Most are mild and tend to improve within the first few weeks of treatment:
This was the most commonly reported side effect in clinical trials. It typically occurs within the first few days of starting Quviviq and usually resolves on its own. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help, but check with your doctor before combining medications.
Because Quviviq works by blocking orexin receptors that promote wakefulness, some of that effect can carry into the next day. This is more common at the 50 mg dose than the 25 mg dose. To minimize this:
Fatigue differs from drowsiness — it's more of a general tiredness or low energy throughout the day. If fatigue persists beyond the first two weeks, talk to your doctor. A dose reduction from 50 mg to 25 mg often helps.
Some patients report feeling dizzy, especially when getting up quickly from a lying or sitting position. Get up slowly, especially during the night if you need to use the bathroom. This side effect usually fades within the first week.
Mild nausea is reported by some patients. It's typically mild and short-lived. Taking Quviviq on an empty stomach (as recommended) actually helps minimize nausea for most people, though it may seem counterintuitive.
While serious side effects are uncommon, they do occur. If you experience any of the following, contact your doctor immediately — or call 911 if the situation feels dangerous.
This is the most important serious side effect to know about. Complex sleep behaviors include:
If any of these happen, stop taking Quviviq and call your doctor immediately. You may have no memory of these events. Ask a partner or housemate to let you know if they notice unusual nighttime behavior.
Sleep paralysis is the temporary inability to move or speak while falling asleep or waking up. It can last from a few seconds to a couple of minutes. While frightening, it is not physically dangerous. If it happens frequently, your doctor may adjust your dose or switch medications.
Some patients may experience vivid, dream-like hallucinations while falling asleep (hypnagogic) or waking up (hypnopompic). These can include seeing, hearing, or feeling things that aren't there. Report any hallucinations to your doctor.
Rarely, patients may experience sudden muscle weakness, particularly in the legs. This can feel like your legs are giving out. It's related to Quviviq's effect on the orexin system, which also plays a role in muscle tone. Quviviq is contraindicated in patients with narcolepsy for this reason.
Quviviq can worsen depression and, in rare cases, may be associated with suicidal ideation. If you or someone around you notices:
Contact your doctor immediately or call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Quviviq comes in two doses: 25 mg and 50 mg. In clinical trials, side effects were generally more common and more pronounced at the 50 mg dose. If you're experiencing bothersome side effects at 50 mg, your doctor may recommend trying the 25 mg dose first.
Many doctors start patients at 25 mg to see how they respond before increasing to 50 mg if needed. Both doses have been shown to be effective for insomnia.
Most common side effects improve within 1-2 weeks as your body adjusts to the medication. Here's a general timeline:
One reason many doctors are prescribing Quviviq is its favorable side effect profile compared to older sleep medications:
For more on alternatives, see our guide to Quviviq alternatives.
Certain medications can increase Quviviq levels in your blood, making side effects worse. The most important ones to know about:
For the complete list, read our drug interactions guide.
Contact your doctor if you experience:
Call 911 immediately if you experience a sleep-driving episode, severe allergic reaction, or thoughts of self-harm.
Quviviq is generally well-tolerated, with most side effects being mild and temporary. The most common issues — headache, drowsiness, and fatigue — typically fade within the first couple of weeks. Serious side effects like complex sleep behaviors are rare but important to know about.
The key is to take Quviviq exactly as prescribed, report any concerns to your doctor, and be patient as your body adjusts. For many patients, Quviviq's side effect profile is actually better than older sleep medications like Ambien or benzodiazepines.
Ready to learn more? Read about how to save money on your Quviviq prescription or find out where to find Quviviq in stock near you.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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