The orexin (hypocretin) system plays a central role in regulating the sleep–wake cycle through two neuropeptides, orexin-A and orexin-B, which act on OX1R and OX2R receptors. Emerging evidence links heightened orexin signaling with the pathophysiology of chronic insomnia. This review outlines the neurobiology of the orexinergic system, compares the pharmacological profile of dual orexin receptor antagonists (DORAs) to traditional GABAergic hypnotics, and evaluates the clinical efficacy and safety of Suvorexant, Lemborexant, and Daridorexant. DORAs function by selectively dampening orexin-driven arousal, thereby facilitating sleep onset and maintenance without disrupting natural sleep architecture. Clinical trials have shown that these agents significantly reduce sleep latency and enhance sleep continuity, with a favorable side effect profile. Overall, DORAs represent a distinct and clinically advantageous option for insomnia treatment, with growing interest in their potential utility across mood, anxiety, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Background: Driving is a coordinated psychomotor activity that involves reaction time, attention, and decision-making. Psychoactive substances such as 2-phenylethylamine (PEA) derivatives and opioids may affect these functions and contribute to traffic safety. This systematic review revealed the effects of the selected PEA derivatives and opioids on psychomotor performance among drivers and potential road safety outcomes. Methods: The review followed PRISMA 2020 standards. Using the PICO method, we conducted a systematic search in Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science (2000–2025). Included studies involved adult participants and quantified the effect of PEA derivatives or opioids on driving-related psychomotor function. Thirty-one articles, such as randomized controlled trials, crossover studies, observational studies, and simulator-based studies, were examined. Risk of bias was evaluated using the RoB2 tool. Results: Evidence indicates therapeutic amphetamine and methylphenidate doses can enhance psychomotor function and safety in patients with ADHD. Recreational or high-dose use of methamphetamine and MDMA is associated with impaired coordination, variable speed, and increased impulsivity. Opioid effects are tolerance- and dose-dependent. Small therapeutic doses of fentanyl in chronically treated patients do not notably impair driving. On the other hand, methadone and tramadol commonly cause somnolence, retardation of reaction, and increased accident risk. Conclusions: The impact of opioids and PEA derivatives on psychomotor function is multifactorial, depending on dose, time, route of administration, and patient status. These substances can either improve or impair driving safety. The findings confirm the need for individual-specific pharmacotherapy treatment. They also highlight the importance of further studies to formulate evidence-based clinical and legislative guidelines.