WARNING

Eszopiclone is a prescription medication primarily used to treat insomnia, a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Like many medications, Eszopiclone carries some risks, including:

• Dependency and Tolerance: There’s a risk of developing dependency or tolerance to Eszopiclone, meaning your body may become accustomed to the medication, requiring higher doses over time to achieve the same effect.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Abruptly stopping Eszopiclone can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as rebound insomnia, anxiety, irritability, and muscle aches.
• Cognitive Impairment: Eszopiclone can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination, leading to a decrease in alertness and cognitive function, which may affect activities such as driving or operating machinery.
• Memory Problems: Some individuals may experience memory problems or have difficulty forming new memories while taking Eszopiclone.
• Behavioral Changes: In some cases, Eszopiclone may lead to changes in behavior, including agitation, confusion, hallucinations, and even paradoxical reactions such as increased insomnia or aggression.
• Complex Sleep-related Behaviors: There have been reports of individuals engaging in activities such as driving, eating, or making phone calls while asleep after taking Eszopiclone, without any memory of the events afterward.
• Respiratory Depression: Although rare, Eszopiclone can suppress respiratory function, particularly when taken in high doses or in combination with other central nervous system depressants such as alcohol or opioids, which can be life-threatening.
• Risk of Overdose: Taking too much Eszopiclone can lead to overdose, characterized by severe drowsiness, slowed or difficulty breathing, coma, and even death.

It’s essential to use Eszopiclone as prescribed by a healthcare professional and to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with them. Additionally, individuals should avoid alcohol and other sedatives while taking Eszopiclone and should not drive or engage in hazardous activities until they understand how the medication affects them.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Eszopiclone is prescribed primarily for the treatment of insomnia, a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. It belongs to a class of medications called nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics, which work by affecting certain chemicals in the brain to help you sleep.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Eszopiclone is typically used:

• Dosage: The usual starting dose for Eszopiclone is 1 to 2 milligrams taken orally once daily immediately before bedtime. The dose may be adjusted by your healthcare provider based on your individual response to the medication and any side effects experienced.
• Administration: Eszopiclone should be taken orally with a full glass of water. It’s important to take it just before bedtime or as directed by your healthcare provider. Avoid taking it with or immediately after a heavy or high-fat meal, as this may affect its absorption and effectiveness.
• Duration of Use: Eszopiclone is typically prescribed for short-term use, generally for no longer than 7 to 10 days. Prolonged use may lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication. If insomnia persists after this time, further evaluation by a healthcare provider may be necessary to identify underlying causes.
• Avoiding Alcohol and Other Sedatives: It’s important to avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants while taking Eszopiclone, as they can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination.
• Safety Precautions: Eszopiclone may impair your ability to perform certain tasks requiring mental alertness or physical coordination, such as driving or operating machinery. It’s advisable to refrain from such activities until you know how the medication affects you.
• Regular Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your response to Eszopiclone, assess any side effects, and determine the need for continued treatment or adjustments to your medication regimen.

It’s important to use Eszopiclone exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with them. Misuse or overuse of Eszopiclone can lead to serious adverse effects and should be avoided.

Other uses for this medicine

While eszopiclone is primarily used to treat insomnia, there have been some off-label uses explored, such as:

• Anxiety Disorders: Eszopiclone may be used off-label in the treatment of anxiety disorders, particularly when anxiety contributes to insomnia.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Some studies have investigated the use of eszopiclone in managing sleep disturbances associated with PTSD.
• Depression: Eszopiclone might be prescribed off-label to help with sleep disturbances associated with depression, though its efficacy in treating depression itself is not established.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Eszopiclone, here are some important considerations:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially breathing problems, liver disease, kidney disease, mental/mood disorders (such as depression, psychosis), substance use disorder, and any history of sleepwalking or other unusual behaviors during sleep.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Eszopiclone should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before taking Eszopiclone if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking, as Eszopiclone may interact with certain medications, including other sleep aids, antidepressants, antipsychotics, opioids, and alcohol.
• Avoiding Alcohol and Sedatives: Avoid consuming alcohol and other sedatives while taking Eszopiclone, as they can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination.
• Tolerance and Dependence: Eszopiclone has the potential for tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms if used for an extended period or at high doses. Use it exactly as prescribed and avoid increasing the dose without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Eszopiclone may impair your ability to perform tasks requiring mental alertness or physical coordination, such as driving or operating machinery. Avoid engaging in such activities until you know how the medication affects you.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your response to Eszopiclone, assess any side effects, and determine the need for continued treatment or adjustments to your medication regimen.

By following these precautions and guidelines, you can safely use Eszopiclone under the supervision of your healthcare provider to manage insomnia or any other approved indications.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for Eszopiclone, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with its use. However, as with any medication, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and avoid excessive consumption of alcohol or caffeine, which can interfere with sleep patterns and exacerbate potential side effects.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Eszopiclone, take it as soon as you remember, but only if you can still get a full night’s sleep (7-8 hours) before you need to be active again. If it’s already close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Eszopiclone, like any medication, can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects of Eszopiclone may include:

• Drowsiness: Feeling excessively tired or sleepy during the day is a common side effect of Eszopiclone.
• Dizziness: Some individuals may experience dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when getting up from a sitting or lying position.
• Headache: Headaches are a relatively common side effect of Eszopiclone.
• Dry Mouth: Eszopiclone may cause dryness in the mouth, leading to discomfort.
• Unpleasant Taste: Some individuals may experience changes in taste or a metallic taste in the mouth.
• Difficulty Concentrating: Eszopiclone may affect cognitive function, making it difficult to concentrate or focus.
• Memory Problems: Some people may experience memory problems or difficulty forming new memories while taking Eszopiclone.
• Coordination Problems: Eszopiclone can impair coordination and balance, increasing the risk of falls or accidents.
• Weakness: Feeling weak or fatigued is another possible side effect of Eszopiclone.
• Nausea: Some individuals may experience nausea or stomach discomfort.
• Constipation or Diarrhea: Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea, may occur.
• Nightmares or Strange Dreams: Eszopiclone can cause vivid dreams, nightmares, or other unusual sleep-related experiences.
• Paradoxical Reactions: In rare cases, Eszopiclone may cause paradoxical reactions, such as increased insomnia, agitation, or aggression.
• Respiratory Depression: Although uncommon, Eszopiclone can suppress respiratory function, particularly when taken in high doses or in combination with other central nervous system depressants.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Eszopiclone, characterized by symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience side effects not listed here. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking Eszopiclone, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider for guidance. Additionally, if you have any concerns about the side effects of Eszopiclone, discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

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

Here’s what you should know about the storage and disposal of Eszopiclone:

• Storage: Store Eszopiclone at room temperature away from light and moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Eszopiclone safely by following local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, properly discard them in a sealed container, such as a medicine take-back program or through a local pharmacy’s drug disposal program.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Help: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, extreme drowsiness, loss of consciousness, or seizures, call emergency services (e.g., 911) immediately.
• Poison Control Center: Contact a poison control center (1-800-222-1222) for guidance on what to do next. They can provide instructions on managing the overdose and may advise you to seek medical attention.
• Do Not Drive: Do not attempt to drive or operate machinery if you’ve overdosed on Eszopiclone, as it can impair your ability to function safely.

What other information should I know?

• Avoid Alcohol and Sedatives: Avoid consuming alcohol and other central nervous system depressants while taking Eszopiclone, as they can increase the risk of side effects and overdose.
• Regular Follow-up: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Eszopiclone, assess any side effects, and determine the need for continued treatment or adjustments to your medication regimen.
• Do Not Share Medication: Do not share Eszopiclone with others, even if they have similar symptoms or conditions. It’s prescribed specifically for your use and may not be suitable for others.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are taking Eszopiclone, including dentists and specialists. This helps prevent potential drug interactions and ensures they have a complete picture of your medication regimen.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss the risks and benefits of using Eszopiclone during pregnancy and breastfeeding with your healthcare provider. Eszopiclone should be used with caution in these situations.
• Travel Precautions: If you’re traveling internationally, be aware of any restrictions or regulations regarding the possession of Eszopiclone in your destination country. Carry your medication in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription.

By following these guidelines and being aware of important information about Eszopiclone, you can use the medication safely and effectively under the guidance of your healthcare provider.