Could a common sleep aid curb suicide risk? small trial aims to find out
NCT ID NCT06854224
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.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center
RECRUITINGThe Bronx, New York, 10468, United States