Trial of Suvorexant for Sleep in Children With Autism

This study tests whether a medication called suvorexant (a sleep aid that works by blocking signals that keep the brain awake) can improve sleep in teenagers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who have significant sleep problems. Sleep difficulties are very common in autistic youth and can worsen behavior, learning, and quality of life. This trial aims to see if suvorexant is safe and effective for this group. You may be eligible if: - Your child is between 13 and 17 years old - Your child has a confirmed diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) - Your child has significant sleep problems (difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting enough sleep) - Your child's medications have been stable for at least 2 weeks You may NOT be eligible if: - Your child has active suicidal thoughts or a diagnosis of severe depression, substance use disorder, schizophrenia, or psychosis - Your child has unstable medical conditions like epilepsy, severe asthma, obstructive sleep apnea, or serious liver or heart disease - Your child is pregnant or sexually active without reliable contraception - Your child has a history of narcolepsy or known hypersensitivity to suvorexant - Your child currently takes benzodiazepines, certain antiepileptic drugs for seizures, melatonin, or antihistamines for sleep Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.