This study will utilize a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled experimental approach to determine the effects of 8-wk treatment with Suvorexant (Belsomra®) on sympathetic nerve activity and baroreflex function in male and female subjects with chronic insomnia. The study will utilize established techniques for assessing sleep (polysomnography), blood pressure (sphygmomanometer and beat-to-beat finger plethysmography), and peripheral sympathetic nerve activity (microneurography). The study will stratify enrollment based upon both age and sex (i.e., male vs. female) because these two covariates are known to influence sympathetic nerve activity and baroreflex function.
This study aims to evaluate the effect of Suvorexant on sympathetic nerve activity and baroreflex function in subject with chronic insomnia. The investigator's central hypothesis is that Suvorexant will reduce sympathetic nerve activity and improve baroreflex function when compared to placebo.