Lunesta

The active ingredient in Lunesta is eszopiclone. Lunesta is a controlled substance that may cause dependence. Lunesta specifically belongs to a class known as non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic drugs. Other nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics include Sonata (zaleplon) and Ambien (zolpidem).

Its mechanism of action involves targeting GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors in the brain. GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, therefore, increasing its effects allows the brain’s activity to slow down to aid in sleep.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Lunesta. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Lunesta:

• Lunesta is typically taken on an empty stomach once daily right before bedtime. Do not take Lunesta with meals or right after a heavy high-fat meal.
• If you miss a dose, do not take extra doses. Additionally, you should not take a higher dose than your doctor prescribes.
• Initial starting dose: take 1 mg orally at bedtime for adults.
• After taking Lunesta, you may have difficulty sleeping (rebound insomnia) for the first few nights after you stop taking it.

The most common side effects of Lunesta seen in clinical trials include:

• Dizziness.
• Next day drowsiness.
• Dry mouth.
• Headache.
• Unpleasant taste in your mouth.
• Tiredness or sleepiness.
• Infection in the nose or throat, sore throat, or common cold symptoms.
• Seeing or hearing things that are not real.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Lunesta. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Allergic reactions - skin rash, itching, hives, swelling, trouble swallowing.
• CNS depression - slow breathing, shortness of breath, feeling faint, confusion, trouble staying awake.
• Mood and behavior changes - anxiety, confusion, hallucinations, irritability, thoughts of suicide or self-harm, worsening mood, feelings of depression.
• Unusual sleep behaviors.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Lunesta. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Lunesta, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Depression.
• Liver disease.
• Lung or breathing disease (asthma, COPD).
• Substance use disorder.
• Sleep-walking, driving, eating, or other activities while not fully awake after taking a sleep medication.
• Suicidal thoughts.
• Allergic reaction to Lunesta.
• Pregnant.
• Breastfeeding.

Boxed Warning

• Complex sleep behaviors while not fully awake, including sleep-walking, sleep-driving, making phone calls, or having sex have been reported after using Lunesta. These behaviors are more likely to occur when Lunesta is taken with alcohol or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants. The use of Lunesta should be discontinued if a patient experiences any of these complex sleep behaviors.
• The sedative effects of eszopiclone may be stronger in older adults and accidental falls and injuries are more common.

• Have experienced abnormal sleep behaviors (sleepwalking, sleep driving) after taking Lunesta.
• Known hypersensitivity/allergic reaction to Lunesta.

Lunesta's effects typically begin within 30 minutes and it helps reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and increases the total time spent sleeping.

When Lunesta is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Herbal medications (melatonin, St. John's Wort).
• Medications for fungal infections (ketoconazole, itraconazole).
• Medications for bacterial infections (clarithromycin).
• Medications for HIV or AIDS (nelfinavir).
• Tricyclic antidepressants.
• Opioid medication.
• Antihistamine.
• Other sleep medicines.

Lunesta comes in the form of an oral tablet with the following strengths:

• 1mg.
• 2mg.
• 3mg.

Store this medication at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Lunesta.

There are lower-cost generics available for brand-name Lunesta.

You may have withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking Lunesta after taking it over several days in a row. Do not stop or adjust your use of this medication without first consulting your doctor.

It is unknown if or how Lunesta could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is unknown if Lunesta passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.