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Lunesta
Lunesta, the brand name for eszopiclone, is a prescription medication used to treat insomnia. It helps patients fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and reduces the number of nighttime awakenings. Lunesta belongs to a class of medications called sedative-hypnotics, which work by acting on specific receptors in the brain to induce sleep. It is typically used for short-term treatment of insomnia, though some patients may use it for longer durations under a doctor’s supervision.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for Lunesta to work?
Lunesta typically starts working within 30 minutes of taking it, so it’s important to take it right before you go to bed.
Can Lunesta be taken long-term?
Lunesta is typically prescribed for short-term use. However, some patients may use it longer under close medical supervision. It’s important to discuss with your doctor if long-term use is necessary.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Lunesta?
Since Lunesta is taken as needed for sleep, you are unlikely to miss a dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. Only take Lunesta if you are able to stay in bed for at least 7 to 8 hours afterward.
Can Lunesta cause memory loss?
Yes, Lunesta can cause memory loss or amnesia, especially if you do not get a full night’s sleep after taking it. This may result in not remembering things that happened the day before or during the night.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Lunesta?
No, alcohol can increase the sedative effects of Lunesta, leading to increased drowsiness, dizziness, and risk of accidents. It’s best to avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
Comprehensive Drug Guide
How Does Lunesta Work?
Lunesta works by enhancing the activity of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is responsible for calming the brain and nervous system. It binds to specific GABA receptors, promoting relaxation and helping the patient to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. Unlike benzodiazepines, it specifically targets sleep without inducing anxiolytic or muscle relaxant effects.
Common Dosages
- 1 mg, 2 mg, and 3 mg oral tablets.
The typical starting dose is 1 mg, taken immediately before bedtime. The dose may be increased to 2 mg or 3 mg depending on the patient's response and severity of insomnia.
Typical Dosing
- For adults: The usual starting dose is 1 mg, taken immediately before bedtime. If needed, the dose can be increased to 2 mg or 3 mg based on the individual’s response and tolerability. The maximum dose is 3 mg per night.
- For older adults: The starting dose is generally 1 mg to reduce the risk of side effects, such as excessive drowsiness or falls.
Typical Dosing
FDA Approved Indications
- Treatment of insomnia, including difficulty falling asleep, frequent nighttime awakenings, and early morning awakenings.
Who Shouldn't Take Lunesta?
- History of hypersensitivity to eszopiclone or any of its ingredients.
- Severe liver impairment, as it may result in higher blood levels and prolonged sedation.
Advice From The Pharmacist
- Take Lunesta right before bedtime as it acts quickly to help you fall asleep. Make sure you can dedicate at least 7 to 8 hours to sleep after taking it.
- Avoid alcohol while taking Lunesta, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as excessive drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination.
- Do not drive or operate heavy machinery after taking Lunesta, and avoid activities that require full alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
- If you stop taking Lunesta abruptly after prolonged use, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, and difficulty sleeping.
Side Effects of Lunesta
Common Side Effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth
Uncommon/Severe Side Effects
- Severe allergic reactions (e.g., swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing)
- Abnormal thinking or behavior changes (e.g., confusion, aggression, or hallucinations)
- Sleepwalking or engaging in activities while not fully awake, such as eating, driving, or making phone calls.
- Severe memory loss or amnesia
Risks and Warnings of Lunesta
- Potential for Abuse and Dependence: Lunesta is a Schedule IV controlled substance and may lead to physical or psychological dependence if used for prolonged periods. Use it only as prescribed and avoid sharing it with others.
- Next-Day Impairment: Even at the recommended doses, Lunesta can cause next-day drowsiness and impair activities such as driving. The risk of next-day impairment is higher at doses above 2 mg.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Stopping Lunesta suddenly after long-term use may lead to withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, and rebound insomnia. Gradually tapering the dose under medical supervision is recommended.
- Complex Sleep Behaviors: Lunesta may cause sleep-related behaviors, such as sleepwalking or performing activities while asleep, such as eating or driving, without remembering these events afterward.
Interactions with Lunesta
Common Drug Interactions
- Alcohol: Increases the sedative effects of Lunesta, leading to increased drowsiness and risk of accidents.
- CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids, antihistamines): May enhance the sedative and depressant effects of Lunesta, leading to increased drowsiness or respiratory depression.
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole): These medications can increase Lunesta levels, leading to more pronounced sedation or side effects.
Alternatives to Lunesta
- Zolpidem (Ambien): Another non-benzodiazepine sleep aid used for the treatment of insomnia, available in immediate-release and extended-release forms.
- Temazepam (Restoril): A benzodiazepine used for short-term treatment of insomnia.
- Suvorexant (Belsomra): An orexin receptor antagonist that helps promote sleep by inhibiting the wake-promoting effects of the orexin neuropeptide.
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): An over-the-counter antihistamine with sedative properties, often used for short-term sleep issues.