Eszopiclone

Generic Details

Generic Name

Eszopiclone

Other Names

  • Lunesta

Drug Class

  • Nonbenzodiazepine Hypnotic

Chemical Formula

C17H17ClN6O3

Molecular Weight

388.81 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Binds to GABA receptors at the same location as benzodiazepines, enhancing the inhibitory effects of GABA

Indications

  • Treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulty falling asleep

Common Dosage Forms

  • Tablet

Typical Dosage

  • 1-3 mg at bedtime

Pediatric Dosage

  • Not recommended for use in children under 18

Geriatric Dosage

  • 1 mg at bedtime

Side Effects

  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Unpleasant taste in mouth

Contraindications

  • Severe respiratory insufficiency
  • Severe hepatic impairment
  • Co-administration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors

Pregnancy Category

  • C - Risk cannot be ruled out

Lactation Safety

  • Not recommended during breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

  • Alcohol
  • Central nervous system depressants
  • Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors

Overdose Symptoms

  • Excessive drowsiness
  • Mental confusion
  • Slowed breathing

Antidote for Overdose

  • Flumazenil (benzodiazepine receptor antagonist)

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from light and moisture

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Rapidly absorbed, with a Tmax of approximately 1 hour
  • Distribution: Highly protein-bound (>97%)
  • Metabolism: Primarily hepatic via CYP3A4
  • Excretion: Mainly renal, with minimal excretion of unchanged drug in urine

Precautions

  • History of substance abuse
  • Depression
  • Suicidal tendencies

Warnings

  • May cause complex sleep-related behaviors including sleep-driving and sleep-eating

Others

  • May be habit-forming if used for an extended period