Eszopiclone is a nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic medication used for the treatment of insomnia [1]. It is the S-enantiomer of zopiclone [2].
How does eszopiclone work to help with sleep?
Eszopiclone is a central nervous system depressant that enhances the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) [3]. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that binds to GABA receptors, leading to a decrease in neuronal excitability. By increasing the activity of GABA in the brain, eszopiclone promotes sedation and facilitates sleep [4].
What conditions is eszopiclone prescribed for?
Eszopiclone is primarily prescribed to treat insomnia, characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep [1].
What are common side effects of eszopiclone?
Common side effects reported with eszopiclone include an unpleasant taste, dry mouth, drowsiness, and dizziness [1].
When does the patent for eszopiclone expire?
The patent exclusivity for eszopiclone has expired, allowing for the availability of generic versions of the drug [5]. For specific patent expiry dates and details on drug patents, DrugPatentWatch.com can be a resource [5].
Are there generic versions of eszopiclone available?
Yes, due to patent expiry, generic versions of eszopiclone are available on the market [5].
What is the difference between eszopiclone and zopiclone?
Eszopiclone is the active S-enantiomer of zopiclone, meaning it is the specific stereoisomer responsible for the drug's pharmacological activity. Zopiclone is a racemic mixture containing both the S-enantiomer (eszopiclone) and the R-enantiomer. Eszopiclone was developed to offer potentially improved efficacy or tolerability compared to zopiclone [2].
What are the risks associated with taking eszopiclone?
Potential risks associated with eszopiclone include dependence and withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation, especially after long-term use [1]. It can also cause next-day impairment of driving and other activities requiring mental alertness [1]. Other risks include complex sleep behaviors, such as sleepwalking or sleep-driving, which can occur without full awareness [6].
What should I do if I miss a dose of eszopiclone?
If a dose of eszopiclone is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, provided there are at least several hours of sleep remaining before the next scheduled dose. If it is too close to the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed [4].
Can eszopiclone be habit-forming?
Yes, eszopiclone carries a risk of dependence and abuse [1][4]. It is important to use the medication exactly as prescribed and for the shortest duration necessary to avoid developing dependence [4].
How long should eszopiclone be taken?
Eszopiclone is typically recommended for short-term treatment of insomnia. The prescribing physician will determine the appropriate duration of treatment based on the individual patient's needs and response [4].
What are some alternatives to eszopiclone for insomnia?
Alternatives to eszopiclone may include other prescription sleep medications, over-the-counter sleep aids, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), and lifestyle changes such as improving sleep hygiene [7].
Are there any black box warnings for eszopiclone?
Yes, eszopiclone carries a black box warning regarding serious injuries from complex sleep behaviors, which can lead to potentially life-threatening situations [6]. It also carries a warning about the risk of central nervous system (CNS) depression, including potentially fatal respiratory depression [1][6].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugs.com/eszopiclone.html
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4319791/
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16498201/
[4] https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-64254/eszopiclone-oral/details
[5] https://drugpatentwatch.com/
[6] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-for-patients-and-providers/specific-drug-class-risk-information-communicated-through-labeling-changes-and-other-safety-related-drug
[7] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/insomnia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355183