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Hetlioz
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Hetlioz

Generic name:tasimelteonTAS-i-MEL-tee-on ]
Brand names: Hetlioz, Hetlioz LQ
Drug class:Miscellaneous anxiolytics, sedatives and hypnotics

Medically reviewed by Judith Stewart, BPharm. Last updated on Jul 5, 2021.

What is Hetlioz?

Hetlioz is a sedative, also called a hypnotic. It works by affecting certain substances in your body that help regulate your "sleep-wake cycle."

Hetlioz is used to treat non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder in adults.

Hetlioz is also used to treat nighttime sleep problems in people with a genetic disorder called Smith-Magenis Syndrome (SMS). The capsule form of Hetlioz is for people with SMS who are at least 16 years old. The oral suspension (liquid) form is for children with SMS who are from 3 to 15 years old.

Warnings

After taking Hetlioz you should start preparing for bed. Tasimelteon can impair mental activities and alertness.

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

To make sure Hetlioz is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice. Hetlioz is approved to treat nighttime sleep problems only in children who have SMS and are at least 3 years old. Hetlioz is not approved to treat non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder in anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take Hetlioz?

Take Hetlioz exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets.

Take the medicine without food, 1 hour before your normal bedtime at the same time each night.

Read and follow all Instructions for Use. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you need help. Do not allow a young child to use Hetlioz without help from an adult.

Swallow the capsule whole and do not crush, chew, break, or open it.

Hetlioz capsules are for use in people 16 years and older. The oral suspension is for use only in children 3 to 15 years old.

Shake the oral suspension for at least 30 seconds before you measure a dose. Use the supplied syringe or a dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon). Do not remove the syringe adapter from the bottle neck. Recap the bottle and refrigerate after each use.

The capsules and liquid are not equivalent. Avoid medication errors by using only the form your doctor prescribes.

Doses are based on weight in children. Your child's dose may change if the child gains or loses weight.

You may not fully benefit from this medicine for several weeks or months.

Store capsules at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

Store the liquid medicine in the refrigerator. Throw away any leftover liquid 5 weeks after opening the 48 mL bottle, or 8 weeks ...