Lunesta, the brand name medication for the generic drug eszopiclone, is a non-benzodiazepine-type medication used for the relief of insomnia. It is believed to work by association with GABA receptors in the brain to cause a temporary sedative-hypnotic effect. It is available in 1 mg, 2 mg and 3 mg tablets, and like other medications, may cause a number of side effects. Many of the side effects may be worsened with higher doses and in elderly patients.
Daytime Drowsiness
Sepracor, the manufacturer of Lunesta, has reported that somnolence or daytime drowsiness was reported as an adverse event. In placebo-controlled studies, 18 out of 209 patients receiving 2 or 3 mg of Lunesta experienced somnolence on the day following the nighttime dose. The occurrence of daytime drowsiness may decrease as the patient becomes used to the medication.
Unpleasant Taste
A metallic or otherwise unpleasant taste in the mouth has been commonly reported with the use of Lunesta. This effect appears to be dose-related and may occur twice as often when higher doses are used. Dry mouth along with dyspepsia, which may contribute to the unpleasant taste in the mouth, have also been reported, particularly at higher doses.
Dizziness
Dizziness or vertigo has been reported as a common side effect of Lunesta. According to clinical studies in both the elderly and non-elderly, this adverse event may occur two to five times more frequently when the dose is increased, particularly in elderly patients.
Anxiety and Nervousness
Anxiety or feelings of nervousness have been reported with the use of Lunesta. In a study of 209 patients receiving Lunesta, nine reported feelings of anxiety or nervousness. Other mental effects including depression, abnormal dreams, confusion and hallucination have also been reported.
Hormonal Symptoms
Gynecomastia, or the development of breast tissue in males, along with dysmenorrhea in females have been reported in more than 2 percent of the non-elderly patients receiving Lunesta in controlled clinical studies. This may be related to changes in hormone production in the body. According to Sepracor, Lunesta has also been shown to cause decreased libido, which may be related to hormonal changes or may be a result of depression.
Pain
Pain, including headache, chest pain and body aches may be common side effects of Lunesta. Joint disorder resulting in pain, such as bursitis or arthritis, has also been reported, along with pain in other areas such as the ears or eyes.
Abnormal Behavior
Lunesta, like other medications, may cause abnormal behaviors such as sleep-driving, sleep-eating, aggression or suicidal behavior. Though these conditions are rare, the FDA required additional warnings regarding abnormal behavior potential to be placed on the packaging of Lunesta and other similar medications in 2008, as these behaviors are potentially dangerous to patient and public alike. These side effects may worsen or occur more frequently at higher doses, particularly if recommended dosages are exceeded.
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