What Is Sunosi? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Sunosi is the brand name for solriamfetol, a prescription medication approved by the FDA in March 2019 to help adults with excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) stay awake during the day. It's used by people with two specific sleep conditions: narcolepsy and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Here's everything you need to know about Sunosi in plain language.

What Is Sunosi Used For?

Sunosi is FDA-approved for one primary purpose: improving wakefulness in adults with excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) associated with narcolepsy or obstructive sleep apnea. It does not treat the underlying causes of these conditions — it manages a key symptom.

Narcolepsy: A chronic neurological disorder where the brain can't properly regulate the sleep-wake cycle. People with narcolepsy often fall asleep unexpectedly during the day. Sunosi helps reduce daytime sleepiness but does not treat cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness).

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): A condition where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep, causing fragmented rest. Sunosi reduces daytime sleepiness that persists despite CPAP therapy — but it does NOT replace CPAP or treat the breathing obstruction itself.

Sunosi is also being investigated (in Phase 3 trials as of 2026) for ADHD, binge eating disorder, major depressive disorder, and circadian rhythm sleep disorders — though none of these are currently approved uses.

What Type of Drug Is Sunosi?

Sunosi (solriamfetol) belongs to a drug class called dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (DNRIs). It was the first DNRI specifically approved for EDS. Sunosi is not technically a stimulant in the traditional sense — it's classified as a wakefulness-promoting agent. While it has some similarities to stimulants (it's a Schedule IV controlled substance due to misuse potential), it has a different mechanism and risk profile than amphetamines.

Sunosi Dosage: How Much Do You Take?

Sunosi comes in two tablet strengths: 75 mg and 150 mg. It is taken once daily upon awakening. The 75 mg tablet has a score line so it can be split in half to provide a 37.5 mg dose.

For narcolepsy: Starting dose is 75 mg once daily. The dose may be increased to 150 mg after at least 3 days based on response and tolerability. Maximum dose: 150 mg/day.

For OSA: Starting dose is 37.5 mg (half of a 75 mg tablet) once daily. The dose may be increased to 75 mg and then 150 mg, titrating at minimum 3-day intervals. Maximum dose: 150 mg/day.

Important: Never take Sunosi within 9 hours of your planned bedtime — it can interfere with your ability to fall asleep at night.

How Quickly Does Sunosi Start Working?

Sunosi reaches peak blood levels in about 2 hours after taking it. Most people begin to feel its wakefulness-promoting effects within the first hour. Its half-life is about 7.1 hours, meaning it gradually wears off throughout the day — the effects generally last through the working day when taken in the morning.

Is Sunosi a Controlled Substance?

Yes. Sunosi is a federally controlled substance (Schedule IV / CIV). This means:

A valid prescription from a DEA-registered prescriber is required

The prescription can be refilled up to 5 times within 6 months

It must be stored securely and never shared

Unused tablets must be disposed of properly via medication take-back programs

How Is Sunosi Different from Modafinil or Adderall?

Sunosi, modafinil, and Adderall are all used to treat EDS in narcolepsy, but they work very differently and have different risk profiles:

Sunosi (solriamfetol): DNRI mechanism; Schedule IV; approved for narcolepsy and OSA; brand-only; lower abuse potential than Adderall

Modafinil (Provigil): Wakefulness agent; Schedule IV; generic available; lower cost; approved for narcolepsy, OSA, and shift work disorder

Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine): Classic stimulant; Schedule II (higher abuse potential); approved for ADHD and narcolepsy; approved for children with narcolepsy aged 6+

Who Should NOT Take Sunosi?

Sunosi is contraindicated (not to be used) if you are currently taking an MAOI antidepressant or have stopped one within the past 14 days. It should be used with caution in patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure, serious heart disease, a history of psychosis, or bipolar disorder.

Getting and Filling Your Sunosi Prescription

Once your doctor prescribes Sunosi, you'll need to find a pharmacy that stocks it — which can take some effort since it's a brand-only controlled substance. medfinder calls pharmacies near you to find which ones have Sunosi available. Also see our guide on how to save money on Sunosi for information on the manufacturer savings card and discount options.