Eszopiclone

(Lunesta)

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Eszopiclone Review

Eszopiclone is used for the treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulty falling asleep and/or difficulty maintaining sleep during the night and early morning.

Eszopiclone is a non-benzodiazepine, oral, sedative drug (“sleeping pill”) that is used for treating insomnia. According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 50 million Americans suffer from insomnia. Symptoms of insomnia include difficulty falling asleep, awakening frequently during the night, waking up too early, an inability to fall back to sleep, or awakening in the morning not feeling refreshed. Most drugs that have been used to treat insomnia are benzodiazepines, for example, Lorazepam (Ativan). Ambien (Zolpidem) was the first non-benzodiazepine approved for insomnia in over 20 years.

Eszopiclone is unique in that it is the only drug used for insomnia that has been shown to be safe and effective for up to six months. Eszopiclone was approved by the FDA in December, 2004.

Eszopiclone Dosage

The usual dose to improve or maintain sleep in most adults is 2 or 3 mg. Persons over the age of 65 years usually are treated with 1 or 2 mg. Eszopiclone should be taken immediately before going to bed since the onset of sedation may occur as rapidly as 10 minutes. Eszopiclone should be taken only by individuals who intend to sleep for at least 8 hours since its effects may last up to six hours.

Eszopiclone - Missed Dose

Eszopiclone should only be taken at bedtime. If you did not take Eszopiclone before you went to bed and you are unable to fall asleep, you may take eszopiclone if you will be able to stay in bed for at least 8 hours afterward. Do not take Eszopiclone if you are not ready to go to sleep right away and stay asleep for at least 8 hours. Do not take a double dose of Eszopiclone to make up for a missed dose.

Eszopiclone Overdose

Seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of a Eszopiclone overdose may include sleepiness, confusion, dizziness, difficult or slow breathing, and unconsciousness.

What should I avoid while taking Eszopiclone?

• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Eszopiclone will cause drowsiness and may cause dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities. Eszopiclone should be taken just before bedtime. You may experience some carryover effects the next day.
• Do not drink alcohol while taking Eszopiclone. Alcohol will increase drowsiness and may increase dizziness while you are taking Lunesta, which could be dangerous.
• Avoid other sedatives, sleeping pills, and tranquilizers, including over-the-counter preparations. They should not be used while you are taking Eszopiclone unless your doctor directs otherwise.

Eszopiclone - Drug Interactions

Alcohol (which causes sedation) and drugs that have sedating effects should not be used with Eszopiclone since their sedating effects, when added to those of eszopiclone, may cause excessive sedation.

Eszopiclone Side Effects

Patients taking Eszopiclone or any other sedative drug may develop dependence on the drug for sleep and experience withdrawal symptoms when the drug is discontinued. The most common side effects of Eszopiclone are dizziness and loss of coordination.

Eszopiclone Storage

Eszopiclone tablets should be stored at room temperature, 15-30 °C (59-86 °F).