Eszopiclone: A Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and More
What is Eszopiclone?
Eszopiclone is a prescription medicine that is classified as a non-benzodiazepine and hypnotic, which is used for treating insomnia. It affects brain chemical levels to assist people in falling asleep quicker and improving the quality of their sleep.
This medicine is sold under the brand under the name Lunesta. It can be purchased in 1 mg, 2 mg, and 3 mg tablets.
How Long Does Eszopiclone Take to Work?
Eszopiclone usually begins to work within 30-60 minutes after the intake. To get the best result, take it just before going to bed with a full stomach. Consuming it in conjunction with food could slow the onset of its action.
Does Eszopiclone Cause Weight Gain?
Eszopiclone has not been directly linked with significant weight gain. However, certain users might have an increased appetite or changes in metabolism, which could cause minor fluctuations in weight. Furthermore, sleep disturbances could affect eating habits, which could result in fluctuations in weight.
How Does Eszopiclone Work?
Eszopiclone boosts the action of the gamma-aminobutyric acids (GABA), a neurotransmitter that is responsible for relaxing the brain. In addition to raising GABA effects, Eszopiclone decreases cerebral hyperactivity and helps users sleep and remain sounder for longer.
Is Eszopiclone a Controlled Substance?
Yes, Eszopiclone has been classified as a Schedule IV drug within the United States. That means that there is a possibility of addiction and abuse; however, the danger is less than Schedule II and III substances.
What is Eszopiclone Used For?
Eszopiclone can be prescribed to treat:
Chronic insomnia – Trouble falling asleep or staying in bed.
Sleep maintenance issues – The habit of waking frequently in the night.
Short-term sleep disturbances – Because of stress or other lifestyle factors.
Jet lag treatment – Assistance to travelers in adjusting their sleep routines.
Shift work sleep disorder – Assistance to those with irregular shifts with the proper sleeping pattern.
Is Eszopiclone a Narcotic?
Eszopiclone, in fact, is not considered an opioid. However, it can affect your central nervous system as many narcotics are tranquilizing and sedatives that aren’t a part of either the benzodiazepine or opioid drug class.
Can Eszopiclone Be Cut in Half?
Certain Eszopiclone tablets can be scored, which means they may be reduced in half. But changing the dose without medical guidance isn’t suggested. Always consult your doctor before altering your medication.
What Does Eszopiclone Look Like?
Eszopiclone tablets usually appear as oval or round-shaped tablets with different colors, based on the dosage:
1 mg tablets – Blue, oval-shaped.
2 mg tablets – White, round, or oval-shaped.
3 mg tablets – Dark blue, round.
The tablets are usually imprinted with numbers or letters indicating the brand and strength of dosage.
Eszopiclone Dosage
The suggested dosage for the first time to adults should be 1 mg prior to going to bed. Based on the effectiveness and tolerance, doctors can increase the dosage to 3 mg a night.
Standard Dosage Guidelines:
Adults: 1 mg – 3 mg at the time you go to bed.
Elderly Patients: 1 mg to 2 mg (lower dosages decrease risks of side effects).
Patients with Liver Impairment: 1 mg (max dosage to avoid excessive sleepiness).
Patients with a history of substance abuse: It is possible to reduce doses in order to limit the chance of dependency.
Eszopiclone Interactions
Eszopiclone is a drug that can interfere with other medications, which can increase sedation or have adverse negative effects. Beware of mixing it with:
Alcohol – The drug can cause drowsiness as well as an increased possibility of an overdose.
Opioids (e.g., Morphine, Oxycodone) – It is possible that respiratory depression can be a cause.
Benzodiazepines (e.g., Diazepam, Lorazepam) – Enhances sedative effects.
Antidepressants (e.g., Fluoxetine, Sertraline) – Modifies sleep-inducing effects.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir) – Could increase levels of drugs.
Muscle Relaxants (e.g., Baclofen, Tizanidine) – It can increase the amount of sedation.
Eszopiclone Drug Class
Eszopiclone falls under the sedative-hypnotic category of medicines, which is classified as a non-benzodiazepine and hypnotic. It has a different structure from the benzodiazepines, but it has similar sleeping effects.
Side Effects of Eszopiclone
While Eszopiclone is effective in the treatment of insomnia, it could result in some negative side effects, which include:
Common Side Effects:
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Dizziness
Headache
Unpleasant taste in the mouth
Serious Side Effects:
Memory loss or confusion
Hallucinations
Extreme allergic reactions (rash or swelling or breathing issues)
Sleepy behaviors that are complex (e.g., sleepwalking, driving when asleep)
If you are experiencing serious side effects, get medical assistance immediately.
Precautions When Using Eszopiclone
To be sure of your safety using Eszopiclone, be sure to follow these steps:
Don’t drink alcohol while using Eszopiclone.
Beware of driving and operating large machines after you have taken the medication.
If breastfeeding or pregnant, you should consult your doctor prior to using.
Tell your doctor about any health issues you have or medications you take.
Don’t abruptly stop taking Eszopiclone, as it could trigger withdrawal symptoms.
Eszopiclone Withdrawal and Dependence
Long-term usage of Eszopiclone could result in physical dependency, And abrupt withdrawal can cause withdrawal symptoms like:
Rebound insomnia
Anxiety
Irritability
Nausea
Sweating
To avoid withdrawal-related effects For avoiding withdrawal effects, physicians often suggest gradual tapering of the dose instead of abruptly stopping the medication.
How to Store Eszopiclone
Make sure to keep Eszopiclone at ambient temperature (15-25°C / 59-77°F).
It should be stored in a dry space far from the direct sun and humidity.
Make sure it is out of your reach from pets and children.
Final Thoughts
Eszopiclone is a highly effective remedy for long-term as well as chronic insomnia that helps people fall asleep and get a good night’s sleep. It should, however, be taken under the supervision of a medical professional as it has the possible dependence potential and interaction with other medications. If you suffer from sleep disorders, you should consult with a doctor to find out if Eszopiclone could be an appropriate choice for you.