Can a sedative quiet the Brain's alarm system in insomnia?

NCT ID NCT07392177

Not yet recruiting Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This pilot study will test whether a drug called dexmedetomidine can reduce activity in a brain region (the locus coeruleus) that may be too active during sleep in people with insomnia. Fifteen adults with insomnia will receive either the drug or a placebo before bed in a crossover design. The goal is not to treat insomnia directly but to understand the brain mechanisms behind it.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Dexmedetomidine (a sedative drug given as a buccal tablet)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a new way to treat insomnia by calming overactive brain circuits during sleep.
What could go wrong: This is a very small pilot study (15 people) testing a drug not yet approved for insomnia. It may not show clear benefits or could cause side effects like low blood pressure or drowsiness.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

insomnia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

INSOMNIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Woolcock Institute of Medical Research

Macquarie Park, New South Wales, 2113, Australia

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.