In the growing world, medical scientists are inventing medicines to treat various health conditions in people of USA. People in their hectic lives commonly face sleep-related problems due to stress, anxiety, etc. Luckily, there are two common medicines available namely, Lunesta and Ambien. They are almost the same but may differ in some factors. So, today in this blog we aimed to provide a brief analysis of Lunesta vs Ambien drugs Comparison.
First, let’s see an overview of both drugs and then compare both medicines.
Overview of Lunesta?
Eszopiclone is the generic variant of the Lunesta drug. It is a prescription medication mainly used for treating insomnia. As a sedative-hypnotic, it affects certain chemicals in the brain to generate sleep.
It increases the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the brain. It inhibits neural activity and regulates sleep. Eszopiclone binds selectively to GABA-A receptors at the same site as benzodiazepines but with a higher affinity for certain elements, specifically those in the brain’s sleep-promoting regions.
Long-term use may lead to dependence or withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation. Lunesta is generally recommended for short-term use to address sleep difficulties and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
What is Ambien?
Ambien is also known by its generic name zolpidem. This prescription medicine is used to manage Insomnia. It belongs to the
sedative-hypnotics drug class. It works by decreasing brain activity to activate sleep.
By enhancing the action of GABA at these receptors, the Ambien drug activates sedation, relaxation, and sleepiness. Unlike benzodiazepines, it has a shorter half-life and a lower risk of dependence or tolerance.
It is important to follow the prescribed dosage to minimize the risk of side effects. If patients take this for Long-term use it may cause dependence. Ambien is commonly suggested for short-term treatment of insomnia and should be taken after doctor supervision.
Comparison between Lunesta vs Ambien Drug
While both Lunesta and Ambien drugs are effective treatments for insomnia, they have some differences and are prescribed according to the patient’s needs and response to the drug. These medicines belong to the sedative-hypnotics drug class and work by decreasing the hyperactivity of neurons to enhance sleep.
The choice between them may depend on factors like the individual’s specific sleep difficulties, medical history, and the prescribing doctor’s judgment. It is important for patients to discuss their options and concerns with their physician before starting any medication for insomnia.
Uses of Lunesta
- Insomnia Treatment:
Lunesta medicine is commonly suggested for the treatment of insomnia, particularly in individuals having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep throughout the night.
- Maintenance of Sleep:
Due to its long-acting properties, Lunesta may be particularly useful for individuals who have trouble maintaining sleep throughout the night.
- Chronic Insomnia:
If other treatment options are not effective then the doctor may prescribe Lunesta for individuals with chronic insomnia.
Off-label Uses of Lunesta
- Shift work sleep disorder
Uses of Ambien
- Insomnia Treatment:
Like Lunesta, Ambien is also used to treat insomnia, particularly for individuals having difficulty falling asleep.
- Short-term Insomnia:
Doctors prescribe this drug for Insomnia short-term treatment.
- Difficulty Falling Asleep:
Because of the rapid onset of action, Ambien is particularly suitable for individuals who have difficulty initiating sleep.
- Extended-Release Form:
Ambien CR (controlled-release) helps individuals both fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. Also, doctors may prescribe it to individuals who have trouble maintaining sleep.
Dose and Dosages of Lunesta
Lunesta drug comes in the form of oral tablets with adjustable dosage strengths, including:
• Lunesta 1 mg
• Lunesta 2 mg
• Lunesta 3 mgAccording to the health condition, age, etc of the patient doctor prescribes the Lunesta dosages.
Dose and Dosages of Ambien
Ambien medication is available in multiple forms, which are:
- Oral immediate-release tablets
- Oral extended-release tablets (Ambien CR)
And, in various dosage strengths, including :
Ambien immediate-release tablets
Ambien CR ( extended-release) tablets
- Ambien 6.25 mg
- Ambien 12.5 mg
According to the patient’s health conditions, the doctor will provide the dose to the patient. Usually, patients can take the Ambien drug orally before bedtime or on an empty stomach.
Side effects of both Medicines: Lunesta vs Ambien
Lunesta Medicine Side Effects
The various side effects of both medicines include-
- Hoarseness
- Lower back pain
- Painful urination
- Drowsiness
- Joint pain
- Runny nose
- Shivering
- Sweating
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Sore throat
- Vomiting
- Bladder pain
Ambien Medicine Side Effects
The side effects of Ambien drug are given below:
- Irritability
- Chest pain
- Fever
- Anxiety
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Chills
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Lack of appetite
- Irregular heartbeat
- Discouragement
Warnings For Lunesta Drug:
People who are dealing with liver disease and allergies, they cannot take this medicine. It cannot be taken with alcohol. Breastfeeding and pregnant women at first have to consult with a doctor before taking it.
This drug has the potential for misuse as it is classified as a Schedule IV drug.
Warnings for Ambien Drug:
People who have a history of abusing substances and liver-related problems, cannot take this medicine. The doctor recommends not taking this drug with an alcohol combination. because it may increase the serious side effects risks.
if a patient misuses it, they may face dependence. Take this drug only under a health expert’s supervision.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this blog provides a comparison of Lunesta vs Ambien drugs. We understand that both medicines are used to treat Insomnia in people. Lunesta is also used for off-label use shift work sleep disorder.
Both have advantages and disadvantages. If any side effects occur during these medication courses, then consult with doctors immediately.
