What do you know about Ezopiclone?

Common Side Effects:

1. Drowsiness:
   • It can cause daytime drowsiness or fatigue, especially if taken late at night or if you don’t get enough sleep after taking it (recommended 7-8 hours).
2. Unpleasant Taste (Metallic or Bitter Taste):
   • This is one of the most frequently reported side effects. Many users experience a metallic or bitter aftertaste, especially with higher doses.
3. Dry Mouth:
   • Eszopiclone can cause a feeling of dryness in the mouth, which can be uncomfortable but is generally mild.
4. Headache:
   • Mild to moderate headaches are a common side effect, usually occurring upon waking.
5. Dizziness:
   • Some users may feel lightheaded or dizzy, especially if they get up quickly after waking.
6. Next-Day Impairment:
   • Some people may feel groggy or experience reduced alertness the day after taking eszopiclone, particularly if they did not get a full night’s sleep (at least 7-8 hours).

Less Common Side Effects:

1. Stomach Upset:
   • This can include nausea, indigestion, or general gastrointestinal discomfort.
2. Cold Symptoms:
   • Some people report symptoms similar to the common cold, such as a stuffy or runny nose and sore throat.
3. Back Pain:
   • Mild back pain or discomfort has been reported in some cases.
4. Mood Changes:
   • Some individuals may experience mood swings, irritability, or feelings of depression.
5. Coordination Problems:
   • Eszopiclone may affect physical coordination, leading to clumsiness or unsteadiness, especially upon waking.

Serious Side Effects:

1. Severe Allergic Reactions:
   • Anaphylaxis or severe allergic reactions can occur, though they are rare. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and severe rash or itching. Immediate medical attention is required.
2. Complex Sleep Behaviors:
   • Eszopiclone has been associated with engaging in activities while not fully awake, such as:
     • Sleepwalking
     • Sleep driving
     • Sleep eating
     • Making phone calls These behaviors can be dangerous, and users may have no memory of performing these actions.
3. Memory Impairment (Amnesia):
   • Some users may experience difficulty with short-term memory or have trouble remembering events that occurred shortly after taking the medication.
4. Hallucinations or Confusion:
   • Eszopiclone can cause unusual thoughts, confusion, or even hallucinations, particularly in elderly patients or those taking higher doses.
5. Depression or Worsening Mood:
   • For some individuals, especially those with a history of depression, eszopiclone may worsen mood disorders, leading to increased depression, anxiety, or even suicidal thoughts.

Precautions:

• Elderly: Older adults are more susceptible to experiencing serious side effects like confusion, falls, and next-day drowsiness.
• Caution with Alcohol: Drinking alcohol while taking eszopiclone can significantly increase the sedative effects, leading to dangerous levels of drowsiness or slowed breathing.