Lunesta (eszopiclone) is a prescription drug used to treat insomnia. While it can be effective for treating sleep disorders, it also carries the risk of addiction and abuse. Understanding the nature of Lunesta addiction is essential for those struggling with it and their loved ones.
Lunesta’s Prescribed Use
Doctors prescribe Lunesta medication to patients who need help to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Lunesta is a sedative-hypnotic drug and classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance. It works by slowing down brain activity to promote sleep.1
Typically, Lunesta for sleep is intended for short-term use, often recommended for no longer than a few weeks. This is because prolonged use can lead to tolerance, where the drug’s effectiveness decreases over time, and dependency.2
Lunesta is often prescribed at the lowest effective dose to minimize the risk of side effects, dependency, and substance abuse. Patients are usually advised to take it right before bedtime, ensuring they have a full night (7-8 hours) to sleep. Taking Lunesta can significantly improve sleep quality and overall well-being when used correctly, helping individuals wake up feeling more rested and functional during the day.
However, patients must follow their doctor’s instructions carefully and avoid a high dose or frequency without medical advice. Misuse, even with good intentions, can lead to unintended consequences, including addiction.
Side Effects of Lunesta
When taking this prescription medication, patients should be aware of the side effects. Lunesta’s side effects include:1
- Day-Time Drowsiness, Dizziness, “Hangover” Feeling: These symptoms can impair one’s ability to perform daily tasks safely and effectively.
- Headache, Anxiety: These side effects can affect one’s overall well-being and daily functioning.
- Dry Mouth: This can cause discomfort and affect oral health.
- Unusual Taste in Your Mouth: This can be persistent and affect appetite and enjoyment of food.
- Rash: Skin reactions that may require medical attention.
- Cold or Flu Symptoms: Including fever, body aches, sore throat, cough, runny or stuffy nose, which can add to overall discomfort and health complications.
Lunesta can have serious effects on an individual’s health and wellbeing, including:1
- Dependence: A physical and psychological need to take Lunesta. This dependence makes it challenging to stop using the drug without experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
- Mood Disorders: Increased risk of depression and anxiety. The emotional toll of addiction can exacerbate existing mental health issues or lead to new ones.
- Memory Issues: Problems with short-term This can interfere with personal and professional responsibilities, causing frustration and stress.
- Overdose: Taking too much Lunesta can result in an overdose, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms of Lunesta overdose include extreme drowsiness, confusion, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness.
Addiction Potential and Reasons for Abuse
Despite its benefits, Lunesta has a high potential for addiction. This risk arises because the drug affects the brain’s reward system, leading to feelings of relaxation and euphoria. These effects can cause some individuals to misuse Lunesta, taking higher doses or using it more frequently than prescribed.2
When chronic insomnia persists, individuals may continue taking Lunesta beyond the recommended period. They might increase the dose without consulting a doctor, believing it will help them sleep better.
Some people use Lunesta to cope with stress or anxiety, seeking its calming effects. The drug’s ability to induce a sense of relaxation can make it appealing for those dealing with high levels of anxiety or stress, even if they do not have a diagnosed sleep disorder.
The euphoric feelings Lunesta can induce might lead some to use it recreationally. In some cases, individuals may take Lunesta to experience a high, especially when combined with other substances like alcohol or other sedatives, enhancing its effects.
5 Signs of Lunesta Addiction
Recognizing the signs of Lunesta addiction is crucial for early intervention. Signs include:
- Increased Tolerance: This is when one needs a higher dose to feel the same effect. Over time, the body becomes accustomed to Lunesta, and the initial dose no longer produces the desired effects, prompting individuals to take more.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Having physical or psychological symptoms when not taking the drug. Symptoms can include anxiety, shaking, sweating, nausea, and severe insomnia, making it difficult to quit without professional help.
- Cravings: A strong desire or compulsion to use Lunesta. These cravings can be intense and persistent, often leading to continued use despite a desire to stop.
- Doctor Shopping: Visiting multiple doctors to get more prescriptions for Lunesta. This behavior indicates dependency, as individuals try to secure enough of the drug to satisfy their addiction.
- Isolation: Withdrawing from friends and family to hide the extent of Lunesta use. Individuals may become secretive about their habits, further isolating themselves to avoid judgment or intervention.
Lunesta Withdrawal Symptoms
When someone dependent on Lunesta stops taking it, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. Lunesta addiction withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:2
- Insomnia: The return or worsening of sleep problems. This can be particularly distressing, as it was the initial reason for taking Lunesta.
- Anxiety: Heightened feelings of worry and unease. Anxiety can be severe and persistent, making it difficult to manage daily activities.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Digestive disturbances that can lead to dehydration and malnutrition if not managed properly.
- Flushing: Redness and warmth of the skin, often accompanied by sweating.
- Stomach Cramps: Abdominal pain and discomfort, which can be particularly distressing.
- Nervousness: Heightened feelings of anxiety and restlessness, making it difficult to relax or focus.
- Shakiness: Tremors or trembling hands, which can interfere with fine motor skills and daily tasks.
Getting Help for Lunesta Addiction
If you or a loved one is struggling with Lunesta addiction, seeking help is crucial. Addiction treatment options include medically assisted detox, therapy, inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient programs, and aftercare programs.
Medically assisted detox is a supervised process to manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
Therapy involves counseling to address the underlying causes of the substance use disorder and develop coping strategies, with various approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helping individuals understand their addiction and learn healthier ways to manage stress and anxiety.
Inpatient rehabilitation offers intensive treatment programs providing a structured environment for recovery, with 24-hour support, therapy, and medical care, allowing individuals to focus solely on their recovery.
Outpatient programs offer flexible treatment options allowing individuals to receive care while maintaining daily responsibilities, including therapy, support groups, and medical monitoring for ongoing support.
Aftercare programs provide continued support after initial treatment to prevent relapse, including ongoing therapy, support groups, and check-ins with medical professionals to ensure long-term success.
Overcome Lunesta Addiction With Lumina Recovery
Lunesta can be a helpful medication for those struggling with insomnia, but its potential for addiction cannot be overlooked. Understanding the risks and signs of abuse, as well as the steps to take for recovery, is crucial for anyone affected by Lunesta addiction.
Lumina Recovery provides dual diagnosis support as well as telehealth options to help you or a loved one at any stage of the recovery process. With the right support, overcoming Lunesta addiction and achieving a healthier, drug-free life is possible.
If you or a loved one is struggling with Lunesta addiction, reach out to our professionals today and start your journey to a healthier, drug-free life.
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