Lunesta Side Effects
Summary
The most common side effects of Lunesta (Eszopiclone) are; anxiety or depression, feelings of nervousness, memory and concentration problems, dry mouth, mild skin rash, nausea, loss of appetite, constipation, headache, drowsiness, dizziness, or unpleasant taste in the mouth. Common side effects usually do not require medical attention however, if they persist of become bothersome notify your doctor.
Common Lunesta Side Effects
The most common Lunesta side effects include the following:
- Anxiety or depression
- Feelings of nervousness
- Memory and concentration problems
- Dry mouth
- Skin rash
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation
- Headache
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth (or bad taste)
The side effects listed above usually do not require medical attention as they will commonly diminish when your body adjusts to the medication. Your doctor may also be able to advise you of ways to reduce or prevent these common side effects from occurring. However, if any persist or become bothersome you should notify your doctor to discuss alternative solutions.
Thinking Impairment
Side effects may include a feeling of drowsiness that occurs upon waking from a Lunesta induced sleep. It is important that this medication only be taken when you can sleep for eight hours and not be taken during waking hours. There have been cases reported of people taking this medication during wakeful hours and later having no memory of the activities with which they participated in. Alcohol should be avoided while taking Lunesta as it can increase feelings of drowsiness as well as add to thinking impairment. Individuals should not operate machinery and motor vehicles while taking this drug or partake in any activity that requires you to be alert and focused.
The following medications may increase the drowsiness associated with Lunesta; antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, muscle relaxants, seizure medications, narcotic pain medications, or cold or allergy medications. Talk to your doctor before taking any of the medications listed above to avoid increasing the side effects of Lunesta.
Serious Lunesta Side Effects
An allergic reaction can occur while taking Lunesta. If you experience any of the following symptoms indicating an allergic reaction seek emergency medical help right away.
- Hives
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the lips, face, throat, or tongue
Other side effects can occur which are not indicative of an allergic reaction but are still very serious, if any of the following side effects are experienced you should notify your doctor immediately.
- Changes in behavior
- Aggression or agitation
- Hallucinations
- Suicidal thoughts
Preexisting Conditions
Certain medical conditions may require you to have special tests or dosage adjustments to ensure you can safely take this drug. Notify your doctor before taking Lunesta if you have any of the following conditions; liver disease, sleep apnea, history of substance abuse, history of depression, mental illness, suicidal thoughts, or any lung diseases such as emphysema, bronchitis, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Pregnancy and Elderly Individuals
If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breastfeeding you should notify your doctor before taking Lunesta. Eszopiclone has been placed in category C by the FDA which means it may be harmful to an unborn child or to an infant who is breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding; medications in this category usually require you to weigh the possible risks of the drug against the possible benefits. This medication can have a stronger sedative effect on elderly individuals; it is very important that older individuals use great caution while taking Lunesta to in order to prevent accidents and falls.
Other Medications
It is important to tell your doctor about all over the counter, prescription, and herbal medications that you are taking prior to starting a new one. Notify your doctor if you are taking any of the following medications.
- Rifampin
- Ketoconazole
- Medications that can induce drowsiness such as; antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, narcotic medications, seizure medications, and muscle relaxants
Lunesta is used in the treatment of insomnia. Individuals with a history of drug addiction as well as certain medical conditions should not use this medication without consulting with a doctor first. You should not use Lunesta during hours in which you need to be awake. If you experience a serious side effect or a common effect becomes bothersome notify your doctor to discuss alternative treatment options.
