Eszopiclone
Generic Name:
Eszopiclone
Brand Names:
Eszopiclone Description:
Eszopiclone is a sedative-hypnotic drug used to treat insomnia. While the exact mechanisms of eszopiclone are unknown, the medication is believed to improve the brain’s reception of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter responsible for inhibiting excitement and promoting the state of calm essential to the body’s preparation for sleep.
Eszopiclone Side Effects:
The most common side effects associated with eszopiclone include:
- Cough
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Painful Urination
For more information, see our eszopiclone side effects page.
Eszopiclone Uses:
Eszopiclone is generally used to treat both short-term insomnia and chronic insomnia. Insomnia is considered the inability to fall asleep or stay asleep to the extent that a lack of proper rest negatively impacts daily life. Experts typically believe that 7-8 hours of sleep per night are needed by most adults. Eszopiclone may be used when patients have extreme difficulty attaining such requirements.
While eszopiclone may be prescribed in some cases for long-term use, chronic insomnia may be a sign of another underlying condition.
Eszopiclone Interactions:
Patients should speak with their doctor about the use of any medications, vitamins or supplements before taking eszopiclone.
The following medications may adversely interact with eszopiclone:
- Anesthetics
- Antihistamines
- Barbiturates
- Muscle relaxants
- Narcotics
- Sedatives
- Tranquilizers
Eszopiclone Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Eszopiclone dosage instructions may vary among patients. Because eszopiclone may be habit-forming, you should only take this medicine as prescribed by your doctor.
Eszopiclone is administered as an oral tablet in doses of either 1 mg, 2 mg or 3 mg. Your doctor will establish your dosage according to your particular needs.
Patients should take eszopiclone directly before planning to go to sleep and only if they can devote a full eight hours to sleep. Do not take eszopiclone with a meal or right after a meal.
Eszopiclone Overdose
Contact your doctor if you believe you may have overdosed on eszopiclone.
Eszopiclone FDA Approval:
December 15, 2004
Eszopiclone Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
There have not been any recalls or black box warnings for eszopiclone.
Other Warnings
Some patients taking eszopiclone have risen from bed and engaged in activities such as driving or eating that they did not remember doing the next morning. Your chances of this occurring while taking eszopiclone increase with alcohol use or the use of other sleep medications.
Sources:
- http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/Scripts/cder/DrugsatFDA/index.cfm?fuseaction=Search.DrugDetails
- http://www.fda.gov/ohrms/DOCKETS/DOCKETS/06p0001/06P-0001-EC1-Attach-1.pdf
- http://www.lunesta.com/Eszopiclone-Patient-Medication-Guide.pdf?iid=body_medGuide
- http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DR600637
- http://www.justice.gov/dea/programs/forensicsci/microgram/journal_v4_num14/pg4.html
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