Dayvigo (lemborexant) is a prescription drug used to treat insomnia (trouble sleeping) in adults. The drug comes as a tablet that’s usually taken once per day.
Dayvigo contains the active ingredient lemborexant. (An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.) It belongs to a group of drugs called hypnotics.
This article describes the dosages of Dayvigo, as well as its strengths and how to take it. To learn more about Dayvigo, see this in-depth article.
The table below highlights the basics of Dayvigo’s dosage. All doses are listed in milligrams (mg).
| Recommended dosage | Maximum dosage |
| 5 mg once per day | 10 mg once per day |
Keep reading for more details about Dayvigo’s dosage.
What is the form of Dayvigo?
Dayvigo comes as a tablet you swallow.
What strengths does Dayvigo come in?
Dayvigo comes in two strengths: 5 mg and 10 mg.
What are the usual dosages of Dayvigo?
Your doctor will likely start you on a low dosage of Dayvigo and adjust it over time to reach the right amount for you. They’ll ultimately prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.
The information below describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. But be sure to take Dayvigo as your doctor prescribes. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs.
Dosage for insomnia
The recommended dosage of Dayvigo for insomnia is 5 mg taken once per day. If needed, your dosage may be increased to a maximum of 10 mg taken once per day.
Is Dayvigo used long term?
Yes, Dayvigo may be used as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that it’s safe and effective for your condition, you’ll likely take it long term.
Dosage adjustments
If you have mild liver problems, such as inflammation, you’ll have a starting and maximum dose of 5 mg of Dayvigo. If you have severe liver problems, this drug is not recommended.
Below are answers to some commonly asked questions about Dayvigo’s dosage.
Is Dayvigo’s dosage similar to that of Ambien or Xanax?
It isn’t possible to compare the dosage of Dayvigo to Ambien or Xanax, as these medications each work differently. And the Food and Drug Administration hasn’t approved Xanax to treat insomnia.
If you have questions about using Dayvigo or Ambien to treat insomnia, talk with your doctor. They’ll help determine the best choice for your condition.
How long does it take for Dayvigo to start working?
Dayvigo will begin to work as soon as you take your dose.
The dosage of Dayvigo you’re prescribed may depend on several factors. These include:
- the type and severity of the condition you’re using the drug to treat
- other conditions you may have (see the “Dosage adjustments” section above)
Dayvigo comes as a tablet that’s taken by mouth once per day. It should be taken at night, right before bedtime. It’s important that you have at least 7 hours to sleep if you’re going to take this medication.
If you have trouble swallowing tablets, see this article for tips on how to take this form of medication.
For information on the expiration, storage, and disposal of Dayvigo, see this article.
Accessible drug containers and labels
Some pharmacies provide medication labels that:
- have large print
- use braille
- feature a code you can scan with a smartphone to change the text to audio
Your doctor or pharmacist may be able to recommend pharmacies that offer these accessibility features if your current pharmacy doesn’t.
If you have trouble opening medication bottles, let your pharmacist know. They may have tips to help make it simpler. Or they may be able to supply Dayvigo in an easy-open container.
If you miss a dose of Dayvigo but remember before going to sleep, you can take the missed dose. You should not take two doses at once.
If you need help remembering to take your dose of Dayvigo on time, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or downloading a reminder app on your phone.
Yes, there’s a risk of misuse and dependence* with Dayvigo. This drug is a controlled substance in the United States. This means it has an approved medical use, but may be misused for other purposes. It also means government agencies, doctors, and pharmacists pay close attention to how it’s prescribed and used.
If you’re concerned about misuse of Dayvigo, talk with your doctor. They’ll help to determine if this medication is safe for you.
* With misuse, a person takes a drug in a way or for a reason other than how or why it was prescribed.
Dependence is when your body gets used to a drug and needs it for you to function as usual.
Do not take more Dayvigo than your doctor prescribes, as this can lead to serious side effects.
Symptoms of overdose
Symptoms caused by an overdose can include drowsiness, which can increase your risk of injury from activities such as falling or operating a vehicle.
What to do in case you take too much Dayvigo
Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken too much Dayvigo. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach America’s Poison Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency room.
The sections above describe the usual dosages provided by the drugmaker. If your doctor recommends Dayvigo for you, they’ll prescribe the dosage that’s right for you.
Remember, you should not change your dosage of Dayvigo without your doctor’s recommendation. Only take Dayvigo exactly as prescribed. Talk with your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your current dosage. Here are some examples of questions you may want to ask them:
- How much will my risk of side effects increase if my Dayvigo dose is increased?
- How will I know if my dose of Dayvigo is working well?
- Should my dose change if it isn’t working well enough for me?
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Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
