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Eszopiclone: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Eszopiclone is a non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic (a "Z-drug") indicated for: Treatment of insomnia (FDA-approved and more.

Forms:Tablet

About Eszopiclone

Indications of Eszopiclone

Eszopiclone is a non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic (a "Z-drug") indicated for:

  • Treatment of insomnia (FDA-approved, established use) — shown to reduce sleep latency (time to fall asleep) and to improve sleep maintenance (reduce wake time after sleep onset), for both sleep-onset and sleep-maintenance difficulties. Unlike some other hypnotics, Eszopiclone does not carry a labeled restriction limiting duration of use, but it is generally intended for the shortest effective duration with periodic reassessment.

Eszopiclone is not approved for use in pediatric patients; studies in adolescents did not demonstrate efficacy (see Use in Special Populations).

Dosage & Administration of Eszopiclone

General Instructions

Eszopiclone should be taken immediately before bedtime, only when the patient is able to devote a full night (at least 7-8 hours) to sleep before needing to be active again. It may be taken with or without food, but taking it with or soon after a heavy or high-fat meal may slow onset of action.

Population / IndicationRecommended Dose
Adults (general, insomnia)Starting dose 1 mg at bedtime; may be increased to 2 mg or 3 mg based on response and tolerability. Maximum recommended dose: 3 mg once daily.
Elderly patients (primarily sleep-onset difficulty)1 mg at bedtime; may be increased to 2 mg if needed.
Elderly patients (primarily sleep-maintenance difficulty)1 mg at bedtime (do not exceed 2 mg).
Hepatic impairmentStarting dose 1 mg; do not exceed 2 mg.
With concomitant strong CYP3A4 inhibitorsStarting dose 1 mg; do not exceed 2 mg (see Interactions).
Renal impairment (mild-moderate)No dose adjustment generally required; use standard adult dosing with caution.

Dose escalation should be individualized to the lowest effective dose. Eszopiclone is generally intended for short-term or intermittent use with periodic reassessment if used longer-term; it should not be combined with alcohol or other CNS depressants (see Precautions and Interactions).

Side Effects of Eszopiclone

The most common side effect of Eszopiclone is an unpleasant (metallic/bitter) taste, reported in a substantial proportion of patients, particularly at higher doses. Other side effects include:

  • Drowsiness and next-day somnolence
  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Mild anxiety
  • Rash
  • Hallucinations (uncommon)

Serious risks (see Precautions and Warnings for full detail): complex sleep behaviors (e.g., sleep-walking, sleep-driving, preparing and eating food, or making phone calls while not fully awake, with amnesia for the event), next-day impairment of driving/mental alertness, and dependence/withdrawal symptoms with abrupt discontinuation after prolonged use.

Contraindications of Eszopiclone

Eszopiclone is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Eszopiclone or any component of the formulation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Eszopiclone

What is Eszopiclone used for?

Eszopiclone is used to treat insomnia — it helps people fall asleep faster and/or stay asleep through the night.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Eszopiclone?

No. Alcohol should not be combined with Eszopiclone, as both are central nervous system depressants and combining them can cause dangerous additive sedation and breathing problems.

Why does Eszopiclone leave a bad taste in my mouth?

An unpleasant, metallic or bitter taste is one of the most common side effects of Eszopiclone, especially at higher doses. It is usually not harmful, but tell your doctor if it is bothersome.

Is it safe to drive the morning after taking Eszopiclone?

Eszopiclone can impair alertness, coordination, and driving ability the day after use, even if you feel fully awake. Always allow a full 7-8 hours of sleep before driving or performing tasks that require full mental alertness.

What are complex sleep behaviors associated with Eszopiclone?

Eszopiclone carries a boxed warning for complex sleep behaviors, such as sleep-walking, sleep-driving, preparing and eating food, or making phone calls while not fully awake, with no memory of the event afterward. If this happens, stop Eszopiclone and contact your doctor immediately.

Can Eszopiclone be taken long-term?

Eszopiclone is generally intended for short-term or intermittent use. If used for a longer period, your doctor should periodically reassess the need for continued treatment, since prolonged use can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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