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.

 

There is no known contraindications of eszopiclone in terms of health condition.