Lunesta! What is it about?
It even sounds festive, doesn't it? And it seems that with this sleep medicine, there may be a reason to celebrate!
A few months have passed since Lunast first appeared on the scene and was blessed by the FDA. So, how does this non-narcotic, non-habitual form of sleep work?
Well, from the information I gathered, it seems that Lunesta is very well formed compared to other available forms of dispensing sleep.
Lunesta (generic name Eszopiclone) was taken out by Sepracor, which conducted extensive drug tests, most of which still had positive results, although tests are still ongoing.
One of the biggest benefits of Lunesta is that it is the only sleep medication approved for long-term use. This is good for those who have chronic insomnia. In some cases, insomnia, as you know, disappears altogether. Tests showed that those who stopped taking Lunesta did not suffer from insomnia or withdrawal, as well-known problems for those who took benzodiazepine drugs.
Another important advantage is that Lunesta is useful for both insomnia and sleep and sleep. So it will work for those who have trouble falling asleep, like those who have trouble sleeping. However, beware here, Lunesta should be taken at bedtime, as this is a fast-acting cure. Do not take Lunesta, and then go to the movies! Also make sure that you have eight hours to sleep, as it is also long (without driving, please, until this time!)
Lunesta is available in tablets 1, 2, and 3 mg. It is best to start with a low dose and increase, if necessary.
Possible side effects
Each medication can have side effects and those that are possible with Lunesta include:
Next day sleepiness
Dizziness
Headache
Uncoordination
Lunesta should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women, since the effect on babies is not yet known. See a doctor first.
Lunes and depression
If you have ever been depressed, you remember those agonizing hours between 2 and 4 o'clock that throw, turn and worry about everything! What can you do when a cure for depression prevents you from taking any form of sleep? Do not be afraid! Tests have shown that Lunesta is well tolerated by those who took Prozac (an antidepressant). A ten-week evaluation was conducted comparing patients with Prozac and Lunesta with patients on Prozac and placebo (sugar pill)
The results showed that Lunesta patients showed significant improvements. They fell asleep faster, slept longer and were more alert during the day.
Lunesta is available by prescription in the USA. This is not yet available in Australia (why they call us "down"!) Those in other countries will have to ask their doctor.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace individual medical recommendations from your health care provider.
Copyright 2005 Wendy Owen
