Eszopiclone - Hypnite 2 mg and 3 mg Tablets for Insomnia

Eszopiclone - Hypnite 2 mg and 3 mg Tablets

Eszopiclone is a sedative-hypnotic (a Z-drug) used for the short-term treatment of insomnia: trouble falling asleep, waking during the night, or waking too early. It is the active form of zopiclone and works faster. It is supplied as Hypnite 2 mg and Hypnite 3 mg tablets. Eszopiclone is a controlled substance (Schedule IV), so treatment is short and the dose is set by a doctor. Other hypnotics used for the same problem are Zopiclone and Zaleplon.

• Two variants: Hypnite 2 mg and Hypnite 3 mg
• Sedative-hypnotic for short-term insomnia
• Controlled substance (Schedule IV)

Variant Comparison

Both variants contain eszopiclone, so the difference is the strength and what that strength is used for.

The 2 mg tablet is where treatment normally starts for adults under 65. The 3 mg tablet is used when staying asleep is the main problem, because the higher strength is more effective for sleep maintenance, reached at the start or by increasing the dose. Older patients start at 1 mg and, if needed, go to 2 mg; in severe liver disease the dose is kept at 1 mg. Melatonin-based products such as Melatonin work on the body clock instead and are not a substitute for a hypnotic.

How Eszopiclone Works

Eszopiclone acts on the same receptor site in the brain as benzodiazepines, but it is chemically different, which is why it is grouped with the Z-drugs. It increases the effect of GABA, the brain's main calming signal, so the time taken to fall asleep shortens and night-time waking is reduced. It adds to the effect of alcohol, opioids and other sedatives, and can leave a person drowsy the next day. A rare but serious effect is doing things while not fully awake, such as sleepwalking or sleep-driving.

Dosage & Administration

Adults under 65 take 2 mg immediately before bedtime, and the dose can be started at or increased to 3 mg if needed. Patients over 65 take 1 mg, increased to 2 mg only if necessary, and in severe liver disease the dose is 1 mg and never above 2 mg. Swallow the tablet whole right before getting into bed, only when a full night's sleep is possible. Treatment is short term, because the effect wears off with nightly use and dependence can develop; do not stop suddenly without medical advice. Do not take it with alcohol or other sedating medicines, and do not drive or operate machinery if you feel drowsy the next day.

This medication may be classified as a controlled substance in certain jurisdictions. It is the buyer's responsibility to verify local regulations. This product is not sold where prohibited by law. Information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.