Name | Eszopiclone |
Classes |
Central Nervous System Agent Psychotherapeutic Agent Anxiolytic Sedative and Hypnotic |
Diseases |
CNS Disorder Sleeping Disorder |
Eszopiclone
Eszopiclone is non benzodiazepine GABA-A agonist. GABA receptors when stimulated produces inhibitory effects on other neuronal signals.
Eszopiclone is indicated for insomnia to improve and maintain quality sleep.
- The lowest dose effective for the patient should be used,
- Recommended initial dose is 1 mg, immediately before bedtime, with at least 7-8 hours remaining before the planned time of awakening. May increase dose if clinically indicated, to a maximum of 3 mg
- Geriatric or debilitated patients: Dose should not exceed 2 mg
- Patients with severe hepatic impairment, or taking potent CYP3A4 inhibitors: Dose should not exceed 2 mg
- Do not take with or immediately after a meal
Commonly reported side effects are-
- Taste disturbances
- Headache
- Somnolence
- Respiratory infection
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Rash
- Anxiety
- Hallucinations
- Effects of CNS depressants include impaired alertness and motor coordination, as well as the risk of morning impairment. The risk rises with the dose. Patients taking 3 mg should be advised not to drive or engage in activities requiring complete mental alertness the morning after use.
- Examine for Co-Morbid Conditions: Reevaluate if insomnia persists after 7 to 10 days of treatment.
- Severe Anaphylactic/Anaphylactoid Reactions (including angioedema and anaphylaxis): If such reactions occur, do not re-challenge.
- Abnormal Thinking, Behavioral Changes (such as hallucinations), and Complex Behaviors (such as "sleep-driving"): If this happens, you should evaluate it right away.
- A worsening of depression or suicidal ideation is possible: To avoid intentional overdose, prescribe the fewest number of tablets possible.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Symptoms may occur if the dose is reduced or stopped abruptly.
- Elderly Patients: Use lower dose due to impaired motor, cognitive performance and increased sensitivity.
- Patients with hepatic impairment, impaired respiratory function, impaired drug metabolism or hemodynamic responses: Use with caution.
Contraindication
Known hypersensitivity to eszopiclone.
None known.
There is no known contraindications of eszopiclone in terms of health condition.