Lemborexant improves sleep quality in patients with cirrhosis
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial, Lemborexant at 5 mg and 10 mg significantly reduced Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores in cirrhosis patients over 2 weeks. The 5 mg dose also improved cognitive function as measured by the EncephalApp Stroop Test, while the 10 mg dose showed a mild increase in reaction time. Liver function remained unchanged across groups.
This article is automatically generated from the structured evidence profile behind the claim above. Scores reflect the quality and quantity of available research, not clinical advice.
Lemborexant improves sleep quality in patients with cirrhosis The current body of evidence comprises 1 study, including 1 randomized controlled trial. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 44/100 (low).
The Claim
Lemborexant improves sleep quality in patients with cirrhosis
This conclusion is most relevant to: Patients with cirrhosis (n=82) from Cipto Mangunkusumo National Referral Hospital.
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸Clinical Trial: Lemborexant Efficacy and Safety in Liver Cirrhosis-Randomized, Double-Blind, Crossover Clinical Trial. (Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸Lemborexant binds to orexin receptors OX1R and OX2R
- ▸Antagonizes orexin-mediated wakefulness
- ▸Promotes sleep initiation and maintenance
- ▸Result: Improved sleep quality and reduced PSQI scores
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸Patients with cirrhosis (n=82) from Cipto Mangunkusumo National Referral Hospital
Recommended Dose
5 mg
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Short 2-week treatment period limits assessment of long-term efficacy and safety
- ▸Single-center study may reduce generalizability to broader cirrhosis populations
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lemborexant safe for patients with liver cirrhosis?▼
The study found no significant changes in liver function tests (AST, ALT, total bilirubin) across treatment groups, suggesting short-term safety. However, the 10 mg dose was associated with a mild increase in Stroop Test reaction time, indicating possible cognitive effects.
What dose of Lemborexant is recommended for sleep problems in cirrhosis?▼
The study supports 5 mg as the preferred dose, as it improved sleep quality and cognitive function, while 10 mg showed a mild negative effect on reaction time.
Does Lemborexant cause rebound insomnia after stopping?▼
Post-crossover analysis showed persistent low PSQI scores in active groups switched to placebo, suggesting no significant rebound insomnia within the study period.
How does Lemborexant compare to other insomnia treatments for cirrhosis?▼
This is the first controlled trial of Lemborexant in cirrhosis, showing efficacy and safety. No direct comparisons with other treatments were made in this study.
References
- 1.Gani RA, Akbar P, Hasan I, Sulaiman AS, Lesmana CRA, Kurniawan J, Panjaitan SM, Dirjayanto VJ. “Clinical Trial: Lemborexant Efficacy and Safety in Liver Cirrhosis-Randomized, Double-Blind, Crossover Clinical Trial..” Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 2026. PMID: 42414855 DOI: 10.1111/apt.70811