Pitolisant
Pitolisant is a histamine-3 receptor antagonist/inverse agonist used to treat excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy in patients 6 years of age and older with narcolepsy. Although its exact mechanism is not fully understood, the medication is believed to promote wakefulness through its activity on the histamine system.
Pitolisant is a wakefulness-promoting medication used to treat excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy in narcolepsy patients aged 6 and older.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N07XX11
- RxNorm
- 2197878
- Generic
- Pitolisant
- Class
- atc-n07
- Brands
- Wakix
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) and cataplexy in patients 6 years and older with narcolepsy.
Acts as an antagonist/inverse agonist at histamine-3 (H3) receptors. By blocking these receptors, it is thought to increase histamine release in the brain, promoting wakefulness and reducing sleepiness.
Safety and efficacy established for patients 6 years and older. The exact mechanism underlying its therapeutic effects remains unclear. Healthcare providers should monitor for common side effects and evaluate patient response to treatment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy