Why is Lunesta (eszopiclone) a controlled substance?

Lunesta (eszopiclone) is classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a Schedule IV federally controlled substance because it has potential for misuse, abuse, and dependence. It is against the law to sell or give Lunesta away to others, since it can cause harm to other people.

Under the Controlled Substances Act, certain medications are placed into one of five schedules. These are ranked in order of highest potential for abuse to lowest. For example, Schedule V medications have a lower potential for abuse compared to Schedule IV.

While Lunesta belongs to Schedule IV and has less abuse potential compared to medications in Schedules III, II, and I, it can still lead to abuse and physical or psychological dependence.

Does Lunesta cause withdrawal symptoms?

Yes, sedative/hypnotics like Lunesta can cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop them abruptly. They usually occur within 48 hours of taking the last dose of Lunesta. Some signs and symptoms of withdrawal include:

• Anxiety
• Abnormal dreams
• Nausea
• Upset stomach

Do not stop taking Lunesta without consulting your healthcare provider. They might recommend a tapering schedule where you can slowly lower your dose over time before stopping altogether. This may help prevent withdrawal symptoms. If you think you may be experiencing withdrawal symptoms after stopping Lunesta, contact your healthcare provider. They may need to restart the medication for some time and try to slowly lower your dose before you stop it completely.

Related questions

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• Can you take Lunesta (eszopiclone) every night?

Who should not take Lunesta?

Lunesta may not be the best treatment option for your insomnia if you have a history of alcohol or drug misuse, or if you have been diagnosed with any psychiatric disorders. The risk is higher for abuse and dependence in these individuals.

It’s also not recommended to take Lunesta if you have ever had a complex sleep behavior while taking it (e.g., sleep-walking, sleep-driving, or performing other activities while not entirely awake). Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of your medication allergies, too.

Tell your healthcare provider about your full medical history so they can help you determine if this medication is appropriate for you or if they need to monitor you more closely.

This is not all the information you need to know about Lunesta (eszopiclone) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.