Eszopiclone

It is a nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic agent used in the treatment of insomnia.

nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic agent

Eszopiclone (s-isomer of Zopiclone) is a sedative/hypnotic. It is a non-benzodiazepine that works via interaction with GABA-receptor complexes. It is rapidly absorbed and have elimination half-life (t 1/2) of approx. 6 hours in non-elderly adults. In the elderly, half life is approx. 9 hours.

Dosage for insomnia Generic: Eszopiclone Form: oral tablet Strengths: 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg Brand: Lunesta Form: oral tablet Strengths: 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg Adult dosage (ages 18 to 64 years): Typical starting dosage: 1 mg once per day, taken right before bedtime. Dose increases: Your doctor may increase your dose to 2 mg or 3 mg if lower doses aren’t helping with your sleep problems. Maximum dose: 3 mg once per day, taken right before bedtime. Child dosage (ages 0 to 17 years): It hasn’t been confirmed that this drug is safe and effective for use in people younger than 18 years. It shouldn’t be used in children. Senior dosage (ages 65 years and older): Typical starting dosage: 1 mg once per day, taken right before bedtime. Maximum dose: 2 mg once per day, taken right before bedtime.

Alcohol (which causes sedation) and drugs that have sedating effects should not be used with Eszopiclone since their sedating effects, when added to those of Eszopiclone, may cause excessive sedation.

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to eszopiclone. Hypersensitivity reactions include anaphylaxis and angioedema.

Dizziness, dry mouth, unpleasant taste, or difficulty with coordination may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. To reduce the risk of dizziness or falling, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.

For pregnant women: Eszopiclone is a category C pregnancy drug. That means two things: Research in animals has shown adverse effects to the fetus when the mother takes the drug. There haven’t been enough studies done in humans to be certain how the drug might affect the fetus. Talk to your doctor if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant. This drug should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Call your doctor if you become pregnant while taking this drug. For women who are breastfeeding: It isn’t known if eszopiclone passes into breast milk. If it does, it may cause side effects in a child who is breastfed. Talk to your doctor if you breastfeed your child. You may need to decide whether to stop breastfeeding or stop taking this medication.

There is limited pre-marketing clinical experience with the effects of an over dosage of Eszopiclone. In clinical trials with Eszopiclone, one case of overdose with up to 36 mg of Eszopiclone was reported in which the subject is fully recovered.

Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.