What is Lunesta?
Lunesta is a popular brand name version of the generic medication eszopiclone and is a sedative that is used to treat insomnia and other sleep problems. It works by balancing out the chemicals in the brain known as neurotransmitters that are associated with sleep and relaxation. Imbalances in these chemicals lead to sleep problems, when they become balanced healthy sleeping patterns and relaxation returns.
Lunesta Uses
For the treatment of insomnia, Lunesta is commonly taken in one dose and should only be used when an individual has eight hours available for sleep immediately after taking the medication.
Lunesta should not be taken during daily wakeful hours as there have been reports of individuals participating in normal daily activities while on this medication and having no memory of it afterwards. This medication can be habit forming and should not be used by individuals with a history of substance abuse; proper storage in a safe place is also important to prevent other people from accessing the drug.
Addiction
Individuals with a history of drug abuse or addiction should not take Lunesta as it has the potential to be habit forming. Symptoms of withdrawal can also occur when this medication has been taken consistently for several days and then is abruptly stopped; this may be a sign that you are becoming dependent on Lunesta.
If you experience symptoms of withdrawal, notify your health care provider to formulate a plan to prevent these symptoms. Individuals should not stop taking Lunesta without talking to a health care provider first as a gradual reduction in dosage may be necessary to avoid symptoms of withdrawal.
