Lunesta Generic Now Available!

Insomnia med Lunesta, first approved in 2004, is now available as generic eszopiclone! Eszopiclone received FDA approval as of April 15, 2014 and was launched this month, meaning you will be able to find it in your pharmacy soon (if it isn’t already there).

What is Lunesta (eszopiclone)?

Eszopiclone is a GABA agonist is indicated for the treatment of insomnia.

What strengths is this medication available in, and how is it usually taken?

Lunesta and eszopiclone are available in 1 mg, 2 mg, and 3 mg tablets.

The typical adult (non-elderly) dose is 2 mg to 3 mg before bedtime. However, your dose of eszopiclone should be individualized and adjusted if you have liver problems.

Is this medication considered a controlled substance or narcotic?

Yes. Lunesta (eszopiclone) is a Schedule IV controlled substance, which can potentially lead to physical and mental dependence.

What are the most common side effects?

The most common side effects of this medication include: headache, drowsiness, unpleasant taste, respiratory or viral infection, dizziness, dry mouth, rash, anxiety, or hallucinations.

There are multiple generic manufacturers with approval to make eszopiclone, so generic eszopiclone should offer significant savings over brand name Lunesta in time.

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Written by:

Ronilee Shye, PharmD, BCGP, BCACP, CDE

Roni is an expert in clinical pharmacy and patient care. She received her doctorate in pharmacy from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; is board-certified in geriatrics and ambulatory care pharmacy; and is licensed to practice pharmacy in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Florida.

Edited by:

Tori Marsh, MPH

Tori Marsh is GoodRx’s resident expert on prescription drug pricing, prescribing trends, and drug savings. She oversees the GoodRx drug database, ensuring that all drug information is accurate and up to date.

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