Could a common sleep aid curb suicide risk? small trial aims to find out

NCT ID NCT06854224

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Marianne Goodman Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This phase 2 trial tests whether suvorexant (Belsomra), a drug approved for insomnia, is safe and tolerable for veterans with major depression who are at high risk for suicide. Thirty veterans will take the drug nightly for four weeks, with in-person and remote check-ins. The study focuses on safety and feasibility, not yet on whether it actually reduces suicide risk.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Suvorexant (Belsomra), a sleep medication that blocks orexin in the brain
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new way to reduce suicide risk by targeting brain chemistry linked to impulsivity and stress.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, small proof-of-concept study with only 30 veterans, so results may not apply to others. The drug is being tested for a new purpose, and side effects or lack of effect are possible.

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.

major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER (MDD) SUICIDE RISK

Contacts and locations

Locations

James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center
RECRUITING

The Bronx, New York, 10468, United States

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