Lunesta
Lunesta Addiction: Side Effects, Detox, Withdrawal, and Treatment
Table of Contents
What Is Lunesta?
Lunesta is the brand name for the drug eszopiclone, which is a prescription sedative and non-benzodiazepine hypnotic that is prescribed to treat insomnia. Unlike other sleep-aid drugs that are benzodiazepines, Lunesta contains zopiclone, which is a hypnotic agent. The DEA classifies Lunesta as a Schedule IV controlled substance because it has the potential for abuse and addiction.
Lunesta is one of the most popular prescription sleep aid medications in the U.S. Although researchers aren’t exactly sure how it changes the function of the brain, it is believed that Lunesta works by interacting with GABA receptors to promote restful and more regulated sleep.
Slang for Lunesta
The following terms are street names or slang for Lunesta and other sleeping aid drugs:
- R2
- Roche
- Forget-me Pill
- Mexican Valium
Is Lunesta Addictive?
Lunesta can be addictive when it is used recreationally or for a long period of time. Large doses of Lunesta can produce a euphoric effect. This effect is also intensified when it is used with other drugs. Although many people use it to help them sleep, others abuse Lunesta for the sole purpose of getting high.
About nine million Americans use prescription sleep aid drugs like Lunesta, and of those nine million, about 30 percent are dependent on them. Lunesta addiction is less common than addiction to benzodiazepine drugs, but it can still be addictive if it is used on a long-term basis or if it is not used exactly as it was prescribed.
People frequently abuse Lunesta with alcohol and opioid drugs, which can increase the risk of dependence and overdose.
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What Are the Side Effects of Lunesta Abuse?
Serious physical and psychological side effects can occur as a result of Lunesta abuse.
Short-term side effects of Lunesta abuse may include:
- Coordination impairment
- Depression
- Memory loss
Long-term side effects of Lunesta abuse may include:
- Memory loss
- Lasting cognitive problems
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
- Anxiety
- Muscle twitching
- Tinnitus
- Sensitivity to light
- Liver and kidney damage
- Hallucinations
- Paranoia
- Dependence
- Addiction
What Are Common Signs and Symptoms of Lunesta Addiction?
If a person is addicted to Lunesta, he or she may display the following symptoms:
- Using Lunesta for longer than originally prescribed
- Isolating themselves from friends and loved ones
- Crushing and snorting Lunesta pills
- Taking larger or more frequent doses of Lunesta than prescribed
- Mixing Lunesta with other drugs
- Feeling as though they can’t stop taking Lunesta
- Having cravings for Lunesta
Lunesta is only meant to be taken on a short-term basis, so long-term use of the drug may result in physical dependence or addiction. A person who is addicted to Lunesta may need professional treatment to overcome their addiction.
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What Are Lunesta Withdrawal Symptoms?
If a person uses Lunesta for a long period of time and suddenly stops using it, he or she will most likely experience some uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Lunesta withdrawal symptoms commonly include:
- Anxiety
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sweating
- Rebound insomnia
- Stomach cramps
- Nervousness
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Tremors
- Flushed skin
Lunesta Detox
Because Lunesta detox can be very uncomfortable, many people will return to using it, primarily to relieve unpleasant Lunesta withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, medical detox is beneficial. Medical detox for Lunesta withdrawal provides 24/7 medical assistance during detox. Staff also utilize medication-assisted treatment to relieve uncomfortable physical symptoms and help clients gradually achieve sobriety.
Most importantly, medical detox programs reduce the likelihood of relapse because clients are housed in a supportive and sober environment throughout the duration of Lunesta withdrawal. So not only do they not have the opportunity to use, but they also receive the medical and clinical care they need to comfortably get sober.
Long-Term Rehab for Lunesta Addiction
After Lunesta detox, many people may choose to continue their treatment with a rehab program. Although drug detox addresses the physical aspects of addiction, detox alone is not a cure for addiction. It does not help clients work through the behavioral problems associated with addiction, nor get to the root causes of their addictive behaviors. This is what rehab is for.
The primary purpose of Lunesta rehab is to:
- Address the underlying causes of the addiction
- Provide behavioral therapy for addictive behaviors
- Work through family issues that have contributed to the addiction
- Teach clients how to recognize and deal with high-risk situations, triggers, and stressors in everyday life
- Provide relapse prevention techniques and strategies
There are many different types of Lunesta rehab centers and programs, but research shows treatment of 90 days or longer provides the best opportunity for lasting sobriety. Although 30-day programs are popular for their convenience, they may not always be as effective as a long-term 90-day program.
Additionally, someone seeking addiction treatment for Lunesta addiction may choose to enroll in either inpatient or outpatient drug rehab. There are several differences between the two types of Lunesta treatment programs.
During inpatient Lunesta rehab, the client:
- Lives on-site at the rehab center
- Follows a structured daily schedule
- Attends individual and group counseling sessions
- Attends 12-step meetings
- Participates in alternative therapies such as music therapy or art therapy
- May be awarded passes to leave campus for the day or overnight
During outpatient Lunesta rehab, the client:
- Lives at home throughout the duration of their program
- Attends a series of group support sessions at a nearby clinical location
- Participates in 12-step support group meetings and discussions
Depending on the type of Lunesta rehab a person chooses, the cost of the program will vary. However, clients may use several different payment options to cover the cost. These include:
- Medical insurance benefits
- Employee Assistance Programs
- Financed loans
- Personal loans from family or friends
- Healthcare credit cards
- Scholarships or grants
- Out-of-pocket payments
Ongoing Addiction Treatment Options for Lunesta Addiction
Because addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease, ongoing sobriety is something that requires continuous effort, long after formal Lunesta treatment is over. Treatment to overcome Lunesta addiction may last for several months or years, depending on the severity of the addiction. However, sober living programs and aftercare programs are both designed to help men and women in addiction recovery achieve their sobriety goals.
Sober Living Programs
Sober living houses are referred to by many different names: transitional houses, halfway houses, and ¾ houses. All these terms are used interchangeably to describe recovery residences, or group homes, that are designed to help recovering addicts maintain their sobriety while they learn how to live independently.
After rehab, clients may choose to enroll in a sober living program, where they will receive recovery support services, such as:
- Random drug testing
- Personal monitoring programs
- Recovery programs
- Employment/volunteer/education assistance
- Peer support
These recovery support services are designed to help people in recovery make a smooth transition into a life of sobriety. Although the cost of sober living homes and programs varies greatly, they are typically much more affordable than an apartment or mortgage.
Aftercare Programs
Aftercare programs are perfect for rehab alumni who need continued support as they transition into an independent lifestyle of sobriety. Aftercare consists of a series of weekly group meetings where clients meet with peers in recovery, discuss the challenges of early sobriety, and offer personal advice and wisdom. This type of program can also be used as a weekly check-in for people who have several months or years of sobriety under their belt.
Although overcoming Lunesta addiction requires time and effort, it is possible with the right medical and clinical support. If you or a loved one is addicted to Lunesta, call Nova Recovery Center to learn about our 90-day inpatient rehab program and ongoing recovery support and Lunesta treatment programs.
Frequently Asked Questions – Lunesta Addiction
Is Lunesta (eszopiclone) addictive?
Yes. Lunesta is a Schedule IV sedative with a recognized risk of abuse and physical dependence, especially when used long-term or at higher-than-prescribed doses.
Why do people misuse Lunesta?
People misuse Lunesta to enhance its sedative or euphoric effects. Misuse risk increases significantly when combined with alcohol, opioids, or stimulants.
What are the signs of Lunesta addiction?
Look for these warning signs:
• Taking higher or more frequent doses than prescribed
• Cravings or preoccupation with using Lunesta
• Continued use despite negative effects (like daytime drowsiness)
• Withdrawal symptoms upon stopping.
What withdrawal symptoms does Lunesta cause?
Withdrawal may include rebound insomnia, anxiety, irritability, tremors, nausea, headaches, and increased heart rate. These symptoms typically appear shortly after stopping and gradually subside.
How common is Lunesta misuse?
In 2020, approximately 54,000 Americans reported misusing eszopiclone (Lunesta), with higher rates among young adults.
Can you overdose on Lunesta?
While overdose from Lunesta alone is rare, serious respiratory depression** and overdose risk increase significantly when combined with alcohol, opioids, or other CNS depressants.
How is Lunesta addiction treated?
Treatment includes:
• Medically supervised tapering
• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for sleep and addiction
• Ongoing aftercare planning to support long-term recovery.
Lunesta Withdrawal & Detox Timeline
Withdrawal typically begins within 24 hours, with rebound insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness emerging in days 1–2. By days 3–7, symptoms often expand to include nausea, tremors, excessive fatigue, and ongoing sleep disruption. After one week, acute issues fade, though mood swings, cravings, and sleep disturbances can persist for 2–4 weeks.
Rebound Insomnia After Stopping Lunesta
When Lunesta is discontinued abruptly, rebound insomnia—worse than your original sleep trouble—often occurs within the first two nights. This sleep disturbance typically lasts 1–7 nights, depending on individual sensitivity and tapering pace.
Complex Sleep Behaviors Caused by Lunesta
Lunesta carries a boxed warning for complex sleep behaviors—like sleepwalking, sleep-driving, preparing food, or making calls while unconscious. These actions can happen even at low doses and have resulted in serious injuries or death.
Lunesta and Alcohol Overdose Risk
Combining Lunesta with alcohol significantly increases the risk of severe CNS depression—leading to amnesia, respiratory slowing, overdose, or death. The FDA explicitly warns against mixing sleep medications and alcohol.
Long-Term Side Effects of Lunesta
Extended use of Lunesta has been linked to rebound insomnia, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, memory loss, joint pain, and even increased dementia risk in older adults. Respiratory issues may also occur.
How Quickly Does Tolerance to Lunesta Develop?
Tolerance can develop fast—often within 2 weeks of nightly use. By day 14–21, users may find the same dose less effective, requiring higher amounts to fall asleep. Studies confirm tolerance after just a few weeks.
Lunesta vs. Benzodiazepine Dependence Risk
Lunesta (eszopiclone) has a lower dependence risk than benzodiazepines, yet it still carries moderate potential for abuse, tolerance, and withdrawal. Benzodiazepines remain riskier for long-term dependence and severe withdrawal.
Rehab Options for Lunesta Addiction
- Medically supervised tapering schedules to reduce dosage gradually
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy focused on sleep hygiene and coping strategies
- Residential or outpatient programs offering holistic support and aftercare planning
- Monitoring co-occurring mental health issues, e.g. anxiety or depression patterns during detox
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If Lunesta addiction (eszopiclone dependence) is taking control—whether that’s escalating dosages, excessive daytime drowsiness, memory issues, or withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, shakiness, or insomnia—professional support is essential. Originally marketed as a safer “Z-drug,” Lunesta can still lead to physical dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and dangerous side effects, especially when misused or combined with alcohol or opioids
At Nova Recovery Center, our specialized Lunesta addiction treatment programs include medically supervised detox, gradual tapering schedules, cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma-informed counseling, and a comprehensive continuum of care—ensuring personal support from detox through aftercare .
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Nova’s Comprehensive Continuum of Care Plan
90-Day Residential Alcohol and Drug Rehab
Our 90-day residential drug and alcohol rehab in Austin center provides a safe, comfortable, and supportive space for you to heal, learn, and recover. Unlike other 30 or 60-day programs, our long-term rehab program gives you more time to adjust to a new way of living, more time to practice the mental and spiritual tools you will use outside of rehab, and more time to acclimate into a recovery community. This 90-day time span promotes genuine and lasting change for sobriety that lasts long after inpatient rehab ends.
Drug and Alcohol Detox
Our medical detox programs treat all kinds of addictions and are tailored to meet your individual needs. We use a comprehensive assessment to design a personalized detox program that will ensure your comfort and safety throughout the withdrawal process. You’ll also have the opportunity to begin individual and group therapy to address any emotional issues and prepare for the transition into a rehab program. We believe this process provides the best foundation for continued sobriety.
Aftercare Program and IOP
Our Intensive Outpatient and Aftercare programs are designed to assist those who have graduated from our inpatient residential facility. Group sessions are available in Austin and Houston and provide structured addiction treatment sessions and recovery counseling in a safe, clinical setting. The first year of recovery can be difficult, but these support groups provide consistency, accountability, and peer support at a time when it’s needed most.
Sober Living Apartments
The transition from a residential rehab center into independent sober life is littered with obstacles. For this reason, we provide sober living homes and support programming for clients who need continued support as they make the transition. With regular drug and alcohol screenings, one-on-one sobriety coaching, and a safe, comfortable place to practice relapse prevention strategies, our sober living program is key to achieving an independent, substance-free life.
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