The FDA has required the manufacturer of eszopiclone (Lunesta – Sunovion), a benzodiazepine receptor agonist approved for the treatment of insomnia, to lower the current recommended starting dose to 1 mg for both men and women because a new study found that an evening dose of 3 mg can impair driving skills, memory, and coordination for more than 11 hours.1 Eszopiclone’s half-life is longer than that of any other drug in its class, which includes zolpidem (Ambien, and generics) and zaleplon (Sonata, and generics).

1. FDA Drug Safety Communication. FDA warns of next-day impairment with sleep aid Lunesta (eszopiclone) and lowers recommended dose. Available at www.fda.gov. Accessed May 29, 2014.

2. Drugs for insomnia. Treat Guidel Med Lett 2012; 10:57.