Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
This study is to determine if suvorexant (SUV) will reduce insomnia in 76 men and women veteran and non-veterans between the ages 21-65 with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and alcohol use disorder (AUD). All participants will have a 7-day placebo run-in period, followed by a random assignment to receive placebo or suvorexant for an additonal 14 days. Post-randomization, participants will attempt to stop drinking for two weeks and will complete daily virtual diaries and study outcome assessments via in-person clinic visits on days 7 and 14.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age between 21 and 65. * Meet current (i.e., past 12-month at Day -7/-6) DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for moderate or severe AUD as determined by the MINI. * Currently experiencing PTSD symptoms at screening (Day -7/-6) as indicated by PCL-5 cut-score \> 30. * Intrinsic motivation to reduce or quit drinking (defined as self-reported intention at screening to reduce or quit drinking within the next 6 months) and to receive PTSD treatment. * Must have an ISI score equal to or \> 7 (subthreshold insomnia). ISI score below 7 at screening will not be included or proceed beyond the screening day. * Agree to abstain from all other sleep medications (starting at Day -7). * Have a place to live in the 2 weeks prior to randomization (Day 0) and not be at risk that s/he will lose his/her housing in the next month. Exclusion Criteria: * A current (past 12-month at Day -7/-6) DSM-5 diagnosis via the MINI of substance use disorder for any substances other than alcohol, nicotine, o