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Compare Wakix vs. Sunosi

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Wakix (pitolisant) and Sunosi (solriamfetol) are both used to treat excessive daytime sleepiness in people with narcolepsy, but they work differently and have some key differences. Wakix is a histamine-3 (H3) receptor antagonist/inverse agonist that can also be used to treat cataplexy related to narcolepsy, while Sunosi is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor that can also be used for excessive daytime sleepiness caused by obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Wakix is not a controlled substance, but Sunosi is a Schedule IV controlled medication due to its potential for dependence and abuse. Both medications are taken once a day in the morning and Sunosi should not be taken within 9 hours of bedtime. Common side effects for both include headache, trouble sleeping, and heart problems. Wakix can cause life-threatening abnormal heart rhythms, while Sunosi can raise blood pressure and heart rate. Additionally, Wakix is not recommended for people with severe liver problems, while Sunosi should not be used with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

  • Wakix (pitolisant)
    Sunosi (solriamfetol)
  • Wakix (pitolisant)
    Sunosi (solriamfetol)

  • Summary of Wakix vs. Sunosi

    Summary for Histamine-3 (H3) receptor antagonist / Inverse agonist
    Prescription only

    Wakix (pitolisant) is a medication that treats excessive daytime sleepiness in adults and children ages 6 and older with narcolepsy. It's also used to treat cataplexy, or sudden muscle weakness after having strong emotions, in adults with narcolepsy. This medication is taken by mouth once a day in the morning. You'll typically start the medication at a lower dose and then slowly raise the dose over time. Side effects include headache, nausea, and trouble sleeping.

    Summary for Dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor
    Prescription only

    Sunosi (solriamfetol) is used to improve wakefulness in adults with narcolepsy or obstructive sleep apnea. Sunosi (solriamfetol) belongs to the drug class called dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, and it's currently only available as a brand-name medication. Sunosi (solriamfetol) is available as tablets that are taken by mouth once daily when you first wake up. Common side effects include headache, a smaller appetite, and nausea.

  • Indications of Wakix vs. Sunosi

    Indications for
    •Excessive daytime sleepiness or cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness) in adults with narcolepsy
    •Excessive daytime sleepiness in children ages 6 and older with narcolepsy
    Indications for

    Extreme daytime sleepiness caused by:

    •Narcolepsy
    •Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)

  • Pros and Cons of Wakix vs. Sunosi

    Pros and Const for Histamine-3 (H3) receptor antagonist / Inverse agonist
    Pros
    •Lowers how many cataplexy attacks you get per week
    •A narcolepsy treatment that's not a controlled substance
    •Only need to take it once a day
    Cons
    •Not the best medication if you have liver or kidney problems
    •Might need to take more than one tablet for your dose
    •Can take a couple months to see the full effects of this medication
    Pros and Const for Dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor
    Pros
    •Taken once a day
    •Comes in two different strengths
    •Unlikely to cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking the medication suddenly
    Cons
    •No lower-cost generic available
    •Can make your blood pressure go up
    •Is a controlled substance so there are special requirements to getting a prescription filled
    •Not approved for children

  • Common Side Effects of Wakix vs. Sunosi

    Common Side Effects for

    Adults:

    •Headache (18%)
    •Trouble sleeping (6%)
    •Nausea (6%)
    •Anxiety (5%)

    Children:

    •Headache (19%)
    •Trouble sleeping (7%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (16%)
    •Having a smaller appetite (9%)
    •Nausea (7%)
    •Anxiety (6%)
    •Insomnia (trouble sleeping, 5%)

    Note: Side effect percentages were reported from studies of adults with narcolepsy. These percentages might differ slightly for adults with obstructive sleep apnea.

  • Warnings of Wakix vs. Sunosi

    Common Side Effects for
    •Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
    Common Side Effects for
    •High blood pressure and fast heart rate
    •Symptoms of mental health problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Wakix vs. Sunosi

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    Learn more about Sunosi

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