Lunesta
® (
eszopiclone) is a prescription medication approved to treat
insomnia in adults age 18 years old and older. Clinical studies have shown that Lunesta can help people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer than people who did not take it. As a type of sedative/hypnotic (or sleep medicine) drug, Lunesta is classified as a controlled substance and may be abused.
Although most people tolerate it well, Lunesta is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, make sure to read the prescribing information on this sleep medicine before starting treatment.
Studies have shown that Lunesta can cause mild rebound insomnia (worsening of insomnia after stopping a medication). Rebound
insomnia symptoms usually occurred for only one night after the drug was stopped, after which people returned to their normal sleeping patterns.
The drug comes in tablet form and is taken once a day, immediately before bedtime. Lunesta comes in three strengths -- 1 mg, 2 mg, and 3 mg tablets. Some of the common side effects include drowsiness,
headaches, and an unpleasant taste.
(Click Lunesta for more information on the drug Lunesta, including how it works and detailed information on its effects, potential side effects, and general precautions.)
