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What is Lunesta
EszopicloneThe Generic name of this drug
Treatment SummaryEszopiclone (brand name Lunesta) is a type of medication used to treat insomnia. It is from the same family of drugs as zopiclone, known as cyclopyrrolones, and is less toxic and more effective than other similar drugs. The main benefit of eszopiclone is that it is approved by the FDA for long-term use, as opposed to other hypnotic sedatives that are only meant for short-term relief (6-8 weeks). It was first approved by the FDA in 2004.
Lunestais the brand name
Lunesta Overview & Background
Brand Name
Generic Name
First FDA Approval
How many FDA approvals?
Lunesta
Eszopiclone
2005
198
Effectiveness
How Lunesta Affects PatientsEszopiclone helps people fall asleep quickly and stay asleep. It has been used to treat seizures and muscle relaxation, but it is mostly taken to reduce alertness and induce sleep. Taking eszopiclone may affect motor coordination and alertness the next morning, and it can lead to complex sleep behavior. Avoid taking it with alcohol or other drugs that cause drowsiness, and use the lowest dose possible, especially for elderly patients. Eszopiclone is known to cause dependence and can be abused, but the risk is lower than with other sleeping pills.
How Lunesta works in the bodyEszopiclone's effects are believed to be due to its ability to bind to GABA receptors in the brain. GABA is a chemical that helps to reduce nerve activity, which leads to feelings of calmness and relaxation. Eszopiclone binds to these receptors, enhancing the effects of GABA and causing a sedative, hypnotic effect.
When to interrupt dosage
The recommended measure of Lunesta is contingent upon the established condition. The dosage also shifts as per the technique of delivery (e.g. Oral or Tablet, film coated - Oral) as laid out in the table beneath.Condition
Dosage
Administration
Insomnia
, 2.0 mg, 3.0 mg, 1.0 mg
Oral, , Tablet, coated, Tablet, coated - Oral, Tablet, film coated, Tablet, film coated - Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Tablet, film coated - Oropharyngeal, Oropharyngeal
Warnings
Lunesta ContraindicationsCondition
Risk Level
Notes
severe hepatic insufficiency
Do Not Combine
severe impairment of respiratory function
Do Not Combine
Myasthenia Gravis
Do Not Combine
Common Lunesta Drug Interactions
Drug Name
Risk Level
Description
Azelastine
Major
Eszopiclone may increase the central nervous system depressant (CNS depressant) activities of Azelastine.
Cabazitaxel
Major
The metabolism of Cabazitaxel can be decreased when combined with Eszopiclone.
Deutetrabenazine
Major
The risk or severity of sedation and somnolence can be increased when Eszopiclone is combined with Deutetrabenazine.
Ethanol
Major
Eszopiclone may increase the central nervous system depressant (CNS depressant) activities of Ethanol.
Fluorouracil
Major
The metabolism of Fluorouracil can be decreased when combined with Eszopiclone.
Lunesta Toxicity & Overdose RiskThe lowest toxic dose of eszopiclone in rats has been found to be 980mg/kg and 3200mg/kg in rabbits. If an overdose is suspected, it may cause changes in mental status or excessive sleepiness. Treatment may involve gastric lavage, intravenous fluids, and close monitoring of vital signs. The possibility of an overdose with multiple drugs should also be taken into account. Contact the local poison control center for more information about how to manage eszopiclone overdose.
Lunesta Novel Uses: Which Conditions Have a Clinical Trial Featuring Lunesta?
Condition
Clinical Trials
Trial Phases
Insomnia
91 Actively Recruiting
Phase 4, Not Applicable, Phase 2, Phase 3, Phase 1, Early Phase 1
Lunesta Reviews: What are patients saying about Lunesta?
5Patient Review
4/27/2022 I found that this drug was most effective when taken just before bed. I saw a significant increase in the amount of sleep I got every night, and experienced no grogginess or other adverse effects in the morning.
5Patient Review
11/3/2022 I was given samples of the name brand Lunesta, and it worked like a charm. I slept soundly for hours. However, when I tried to switch to the generic version, I didn't feel any effects whatsoever. It's pointless to have this life-saving medication if only rich people can afford it.
5Patient Review
7/3/2022 This medication is amazing. I was struggling to sleep at night due to stress and within 30 minutes of taking Lunesta, I was out like a light. I slept all through the night and woke up feeling refreshed and well-rested. The taste isn't great, but it's worth it for the wonderful results. I highly recommend this medication.
5Patient Review
5/29/2022 Lunesta was effective for me, but my doctor took me off the medication because of potential risks to dementia.
5Patient Review
3/23/2022 Tolerance builds up quickly.
4.3Patient Review
8/9/2021 I've had great success with Lunesta in the past, but there have definitely been some duds in the bunch. The ones that don't work well are very light in color, while the effective ones are a darker blue or orange-tan. If you need more than one pill, it's probably not worth it. Otherwise, I'd recommend cutting them in half if you're not too stressed.
4.3Patient Review
7/21/2022 Lunesta has really helped me to get a restful sleep. I occasionally have issues with anxiety and stress, which makes it hard to fall asleep, but Lunesta has definitely improved my sleep quality.
4.3Patient Review
7/8/2022 This has been the most effective sleep cocktail I've tried. It really helps when I'm struggling to stay awake and also alleviates some of my neurological pain.
4Patient Review
2/16/2022 I found that using this treatment twice a week kept me problem-free; however, if you use it more often than that, there's a risk it will stop working effectively. If that happens, you have to wean yourself off slowly over the course of several months (or longer).
2Patient Review
11/1/2021 I tried Lunesta for four nights but after still being awake for three hours afterwards, I refuse to take it again. The doctor will have to try something else with me.
2Patient Review
7/13/2022 I've taken 3mg of this medication for years with great results. However, recently the quality seems to have diminished. This refill from Sunovion Pharma is noticeably less effective.
2Patient Review
10/23/2022 Ineffective and gross tasting. Do not split the generic tablet!
2Patient Review
4/27/2022 My heart rate dropped significantly while taking this medication, and I had two sleepless nights. Overall, felt terrible. Would not recommend.
1.7Patient Review
10/21/2021 Was prescribed this to help with my insomnia but unfortunately it didn't do anything. It's quite pricey too so it was a waste of money in my case.
1Patient Review
8/6/2022 Lunesta didn't help me get a single wink of sleep. In fact, I felt more depressed and got a headache that lasted for two days straight. Definitely not worth it.
1Patient Review
2/13/2022 Lunesta was ineffective for me and left a nasty taste in my mouth. Additionally, it didn't seem to have any effect on my ability to drive.
Patient Q&A Section about lunesta
These questions and answers are submitted by anonymous patients, and have not been verified by our internal team.Is Lunesta in the same class as Ambien?
"Lunesta is a brand name for the sedative-hypnotic eszopiclone. Ambien is a brand name for the sedative-hypnotic zolpidem."
Answered by AI
Is Lunesta a good sleeping pill?
"This drug is used to treat insomnia. It can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. It also may reduce the number of times you wake up during the night."
Answered by AI