WARNING

Edluar is a medication used to treat insomnia by helping individuals fall asleep faster. However, like all medications, it carries potential risks. Here are some of the risks associated with taking Edluar:

• Dependency and Addiction: Edluar, like other medications in its class (benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepine hypnotics), can lead to dependency and addiction if used for an extended period or in higher doses than prescribed.
• Drowsiness and Impaired Alertness: Taking Edluar can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired cognitive function. These effects can persist into the next day, affecting activities such as driving or operating machinery.
• Memory Problems: Some users may experience memory problems or lapses in memory while taking Edluar, especially if they do not get a full 7-8 hours of sleep after taking the medication.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Abruptly stopping Edluar after prolonged use can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as rebound insomnia, anxiety, agitation, and even seizures in severe cases.
• Respiratory Depression: Edluar can cause respiratory depression, especially when taken with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol or opioids. This effect can be dangerous, particularly in individuals with respiratory disorders.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Edluar, which can manifest as skin rashes, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. These reactions require immediate medical attention.
• Complex Sleep Behaviors: In rare cases, individuals taking Edluar or similar medications may engage in complex sleep behaviors such as sleepwalking, sleep-driving, or other activities while not fully awake.
• Increased Risk in Certain Populations: Elderly individuals, those with a history of substance abuse, or those with certain medical conditions may be at increased risk of experiencing adverse effects from Edluar.

It’s crucial to use Edluar exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional and to discuss any concerns or potential risks with them before starting the medication. Additionally, individuals should avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants while taking Edluar to minimize the risk of adverse effects.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Edluar is prescribed to treat insomnia, a common sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. It belongs to a class of medications known as non-benzodiazepine hypnotics, specifically targeting the GABA-A receptors in the brain to induce sleep.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Edluar is typically used:

• Dosage: The usual dose of Edluar is one tablet placed under the tongue and allowed to dissolve completely before bedtime. The dosage strength varies depending on individual factors such as age, medical condition, and response to treatment. It’s important to follow the dosage instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
• Timing: Edluar should be taken immediately before bedtime, as it works rapidly to induce sleep. It should not be taken earlier in the evening or during the day, as it may cause drowsiness and impair cognitive function.
• Administration: The tablet should be placed under the tongue and allowed to dissolve without chewing or swallowing. This sublingual administration facilitates faster absorption into the bloodstream.
• Avoiding Food and Drink: Edluar should not be taken with or immediately after a meal, as food can delay its absorption and reduce its effectiveness. It’s best to take Edluar on an empty stomach or at least 1-2 hours after eating.
• Limitations on Use: Edluar is typically prescribed for short-term use (generally 7 to 10 days) to avoid the development of tolerance, dependency, or withdrawal symptoms. Prolonged use should be avoided without medical supervision.
• Precautions: It’s essential to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when taking Edluar. Avoid consuming alcohol or other central nervous system depressants while using Edluar, as they can increase the risk of side effects such as respiratory depression and impaired cognitive function.
• Regular Follow-up: Individuals prescribed Edluar should have regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and assess any potential side effects or concerns.

It’s crucial to use Edluar exactly as prescribed and to discuss any questions or concerns with a healthcare professional before starting or discontinuing the medication.

Other uses for this medicine

Edluar is primarily prescribed for the treatment of insomnia, but it may have off-label uses or be used in certain situations beyond its approved indication. However, any off-label use should only be done under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

Some special precautions to follow when using Edluar include:

• Medical History: Before taking Edluar, inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially breathing problems (such as sleep apnea, COPD), liver disease, kidney disease, mental/mood disorders (such as depression, thoughts of suicide), substance abuse, or a history of allergic reactions to medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Edluar during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well-established, so your healthcare provider will weigh the potential risks and benefits before prescribing it.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking. Edluar may interact with other medications, especially other central nervous system depressants (such as alcohol, opioids, tranquilizers), leading to increased drowsiness, respiratory depression, or other adverse effects.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Edluar can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired cognitive function, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid driving or engaging in activities requiring mental alertness until you know how Edluar affects you, especially during the first few hours after taking it.
• Alcohol and CNS Depressants: Avoid consuming alcohol or other central nervous system depressants while taking Edluar, as they can enhance the sedative effects and increase the risk of respiratory depression and other adverse reactions.
• Tolerance and Dependence: Edluar should only be used for short-term treatment of insomnia (generally 7 to 10 days) to minimize the risk of tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. Extended or excessive use may lead to physical or psychological dependence.
• Abrupt Discontinuation: Do not stop taking Edluar suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider, as it may cause withdrawal symptoms such as rebound insomnia, anxiety, agitation, or seizures, especially if you have been using it for a prolonged period.
• Storage: Store Edluar at room temperature away from light and moisture, and keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and ask any questions you may have about using Edluar safely and effectively.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special dietary instructions for Edluar typically involve avoiding heavy meals or consuming food shortly before taking the medication. Eating a heavy meal before taking Edluar may delay its onset of action or decrease its effectiveness. It’s generally recommended to take Edluar on an empty stomach or at least 1-2 hours after eating.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Edluar, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at your regular scheduled time. Do not double the dose to catch up. Taking an extra dose may increase the risk of side effects and overdose. If you have any concerns about missed doses or dosage instructions, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Edluar, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Edluar may include:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Difficulty concentrating
• Memory problems
• Muscle pain
• Blurred vision
• Changes in appetite
• Changes in libido

These side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider.

In some cases, Edluar may cause more severe side effects that require immediate medical attention. These can include:

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing)
• Mood changes (such as agitation, confusion, hallucinations)
• Unusual behavior (such as sleep-driving, sleepwalking)
• Suicidal thoughts or behavior

Additionally, Edluar, like other medications in its class, may increase the risk of falls, especially in older adults, due to its sedative effects.

It’s essential to discuss any concerns about potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting Edluar. If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking Edluar, seek medical attention promptly.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

Storage:

• Store Edluar at room temperature away from light and moisture.
• Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not store Edluar in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink, where it might get damp.
• Avoid exposing Edluar to extreme heat or cold.

Disposal:

• Dispose of unused or expired Edluar properly according to local guidelines or by following specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Do not flush Edluar down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so.
• If unsure about proper disposal methods, consult with your pharmacist or healthcare provider.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an overdose or emergency situation involving Edluar, contact your local poison control center (1-800-222-1222 in the United States) or seek emergency medical assistance immediately.
• Symptoms of Edluar overdose may include excessive drowsiness, confusion, slowed or difficult breathing, fainting, or loss of consciousness.

What other information should I know?

• Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider while taking Edluar. Your provider may need to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
• Do not share Edluar with others, even if they have similar symptoms. It is prescribed specifically for you based on your medical condition and needs.
• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are taking Edluar, especially before undergoing any surgical procedures or dental work.
• Avoid consuming alcohol or other central nervous system depressants while taking Edluar, as it can increase the risk of adverse effects.
• Do not change the dosage or stop taking Edluar without consulting your healthcare provider, as sudden discontinuation may lead to withdrawal symptoms or rebound insomnia.

Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding the use, storage, disposal, and emergency procedures for Edluar. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to seek clarification from your healthcare provider.