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Lunesta! What's all the fuss about?

It even sounds festive doesn't it ? And it appears that with this sleep medication, there may well be cause for celebration!

It's been some months now since Lunesta first appeared on the scene and was blessed by the FDA. So how has this non-narcotic, non habit forming sleep aid been performing?

Well from the information I have gathered, it seems Lunesta is stacking up very well compared to the other available forms of prescription sleep medication.

Lunesta (generic name Eszopiclone) was brought out by a company called Sepracor which has done extensive tests on the medication, the majority of which have had positive results so far, although the tests are still ongoing.

One of the greatest advantages of Lunesta is that it is the only sleep medication approved for long term use. This is a boon for those with chronic insomnia. In some cases the insomnia has been known to disappear altogether. Tests have shown those who have stopped taking Lunesta haven't suffered any rebound insomnia or withdrawal, both well known problems for those taking the benzodiazepine medications.

Another major advantage is that Lunesta is useful for both sleep onset and sleep maintenance insomnia. Meaning it will work as well for those who for have trouble falling asleep as for those who have trouble staying asleep. A caveat here though, Lunesta should be taken just before going to bed as it a fast acting medication. Don't take Lunesta and then take a trip to the movies! Also make sure you have eight hours set aside for sleep as it is also long lasting (no driving the car please before that time!)

Lunesta is available in 1, 2 and 3 mg tablets. It's best to start with a low dose and increase if needed.

Possible Side Effects

Every medication can have it's side effects and those that are possible with Lunesta include:

• Next day drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Uncoordination

Lunesta should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women as the effect on infants is not yet known. See your doctor first.

Lunesta and Depression

If you've ever been depressed, you'll remember those agonizing hours between 2 and 4am tossing and turning and worrying about everything! What can you do when your depression medication precludes taking any form of sleeping aid? Never fear! Tests have shown that Lunesta is well tolerated by those taking Prozac (an anti-depressant drug) A ten week survey was done comparing patients on Prozac and Lunesta with patients on Prozac and a placebo (sugar pill)

Results found the Lunesta patients showed significant improvements. They fell asleep more quickly, stayed asleep longer and were more alert during the day.

Lunesta is available on prescription in the US. It's not yet available in Australia (that's why they call us "down under"!) Those in other countries would need to ask their doctor.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace individual medical advice from you health care provider.

Copyright 2005 Wendy Owen