Ambien Vs Lunesta: What Are The Differences?

It’s not just you who suffers from insomnia. Millions of adults experience falling and staying asleep difficulties and turn to prescription sleep medicines for relief. The two main medications that are prescribed by doctors are Ambien and Lunesta but some confusion arises: are they equal or not, is it safe or not when both are taken together, and what are the dosage differences?

In this article, we provide important information that will help you choose a better sleeping aid for yourself. Let us discuss.

Overview of Ambien vs Lunesta?

Both Ambien and Lunesta are prescription drugs approved by the FDA and prescribed for adults to treat insomnia. These drugs belong to a specific class known as sedative-hypnotics, which act to slow down brain activity so that people can sleep.

Ambien(Zolpidem)

It is a prescription medication that is mainly used to treat Insomnia. Its active component is zolpidem tartrate, a sedative-hypnotic that acts by influencing chemicals in the brain to induce sleep. Ambien is often prescribed for temporary use, allowing people to fall asleep quicker and sleep longer. There are two forms of Ambien: immediate-release and extended-release.

Lunesta (Eszopiclone)

This drug is a sedative-hypnotic that alleviates tension and anxiety and puts individuals to sleep. It is frequently prescribed by doctors for the treatment of individuals who experience difficulties sleeping.

Dosage Information (Ambien vs Lunesta)

Ambien Dosage:

Ambien is available in Various types:

• For Immediate release (IR), the forms available are: Ambien 5 mg and Ambien 10 mg tablets
• There a 6.25 mg and 12.5 mg Ambien CR available.

Normal dosage:

• Women: 5 mg at bedtime (IR)
• Men: 5-10 mg (IR)
• In both women and men, Ambien CR starts with a dose of 6.25 mg

Lunesta Dosage:

Lunesta comes in:

• Tablet Form- 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg

Usual treatment:

• The first dose should be 1 mg before you go to bed
• If necessary, dosages of 2 mg and 3 mg are increased

How Long Do They Last In Your System?

Ambien:

1. Immediate-Release Ambien

• Onset – 15-30 minutes
• Duration – 6-8 hours
• Peak Effect – It takes 1.5 to 2 hours
• Purpose – Assists in rapidly inducing sleep.

2. Ambien CR (Extended-Release)

• Onset – Likely 15 – 30 minutes after intake.
• Duration – Above 8 hours before intake
• Purpose – Assists in rapidly inducing sleep and maintaining it for a longer duration.

Lunesta:

• Intended to function overnight.
• Lasts: A maximum of 8 hours.
• Generally preferred by those who are light sleepers or habitual wakers during the night.

Side Effects of Both Medications

Each of the medications can have potential side effects and must be used carefully. Their intended purpose is for a short duration (normally 2-6 weeks); however, some patients may use them for longer periods of time under a physician’s guidance.

Common Side Effects:

Severe Side Effects:

• Sleepwalking
• Eating or driving while sleeping
• Engaging in complex behaviors while not lucid (‘acting’ while still half-awake)
• It is common for chronic users to experience withdrawal symptoms or dependence.

Both medications have these risks, which is why they both carry an FDA black box warning about dangerous potential sleep-related behaviors.

Which Is the Better Pick for Safety?

When comparing Ambien (zolpidem) and Lunesta (eszopiclone) on safety, the superior option may depend on specific health conditions, and they both have risks associated with them, particularly if used for extended durations or with other depressants such as alcohol or opioids.

Some important variations in the safety aspects are:

• In the case of Ambien, there are increased cases of sleepwalking and sleep-driving associated with its use.
• Users of Lunesta often report a side effect of a metallic taste in their mouth and sluggishness the following day, especially with higher dosages of the drug.

Lastly, it’s important to mention that, while both Lunesta and Ambien are Schedule IV controlled substances, the latter is much less known to cause amnesia or unusual behaviors.

Expert Advices: What Do Doctors Recommend?

Most practitioners suggest CBT-I (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia), a form of therapy that does not require medication, as the first option in managing chronic insomnia. But they’re still writing prescriptions for Ambien and Lunesta if someone requires a short-term treatment.

When They Prefer Ambien

• When falling asleep is the primary issue.
• For short-term or situational insomnia.
• When rapid onset and minimal residual effects are needed.

When They Prefer Lunesta

• For sleep maintenance issues.
• When longer action is necessary.
• If the patient has had atypical behavioral side effects with Ambien.

There are clear instructions from the prescribing doctors that either medication should be administered:

• At minimal effective dosage.
• For minimal duration.
• Tightly controlled medical supervision.

Ambien Vs Lunesta: Which Is Best For You?

The better option is between Ambien and Lunesta, depending on your individual sleep problems, health background, lifestyle, and risk factors.

Go for Ambien if:

• The main purpose is falling asleep.
• You want a short-acting medication with faster onset and shorter duration.
• You cannot drive or cannot operate heavy machinery in the following day

Pick Lunesta if:

• Sleeping problems or waking up at night are common problems.
• You aren’t bothered by the potential for a metallic aftertaste.
• You are looking for help sleeping the entire night.

Conclusion:

Ambien and Lunesta can work as short-term treatments for insomnia; however, they both have prominent risks and are not cures. Always consult with your doctor regarding the appropriate choice for you, and consider non-pharmacological approaches to promote healthy sleep. If you wish to use Ambien or Lunesta, make sure to discuss with your healthcare provider about your personal sleep history, any past problems with drugs, alcohol, or mental illness, and any other medications or herbal supplements being used.