Lunesta, or Eszopiclone as it is otherwise known, is a prescription drug used to treat sleeping issues such as insomnia. Typically prescribed by medical professionals, Lunesta helps many fall asleep quicker and get a good night’s sleep.
Although medical advice states that sleeping aids such as Lunesta should not be consumed for more than one or two weeks due to the risk of developing and physical or psychological addiction. We have noticed an increase in the number of individuals battling Lunesta addictions has been noted in recent times.
How Lunesta Works
Lunesta works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain that are involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Specifically, Lunesta binds to a type of receptor in the brain called the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor. This receptor helps to slow down activity in the brain and promote relaxation, which can lead to better sleep.
By binding to the GABA receptor, Lunesta enhances the effects of GABA in the brain, which can help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and increase the total amount of sleep time. Lunesta has a relatively short half-life, which means that it is quickly eliminated from the body, allowing the individual to wake up feeling refreshed in the morning.
Sadly, when an addiction to these sleeping pills happens, it can be challenging to overcome the physical and psychological ramifications without professional support. Yet many individuals defer treatment for various reasons.
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Sadly, when an addiction to Lunesta arises, it is challenging to overcome the physical and psychological ramifications without professional support. Yet many individuals defer treatment for various reasons.
At Addiction Advocates, we appreciate getting help for prescription drug addiction is easier said than done. As a result, we have developed a free helpline that can 1st advise and, if needed, help you secure inpatient treatment.
Lunesta Side Effects
Lunesta can have several side effects, which may vary from person to person. Common side effects of Lunesta may include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Difficulty with coordination or balance
- Stomach pain or discomfort
- Nausea
Less common side effects of Lunesta may include:
- Memory problems or forgetfulness
- Confusion
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there)
- Behavioural changes or unusual thoughts
- Mood swings or emotional changes
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
Prolonged use or misuse of Lunesta can lead to you building up quite a tolerance and lead to Lunester abuse. This, in turn, can lead to physical dependence and addiction.
It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and not to take more Lunesta than prescribed or to take it for longer than recommended. If you are concerned about the potential for addiction, you should talk to your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional.
How Many People are Addicted to Lunesta?
The exact number of people who are addicted to Lunesta (eszopiclone) is difficult to determine, as addiction rates can vary depending on several factors, such as individual use patterns, dosage, and duration of use. Like other prescription drugs used to treat sleep disorders, Lunesta has the potential for users to experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the drug and this can often force them onto the black market.
According to a report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), there were 2,050 emergency department visits related to eszopiclone in the United States in 2011. This suggests that there is some level of abuse and misuse of the drug. However, it is important to note that not all of these visits were due to addiction or dependence, as some may have been due to accidental overdose or other factors.
If you are concerned about addiction to Lunesta or any other sleeping pill medication, it is important to talk to your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional for guidance and support. They can help you understand the risks and benefits of the medication and develop a plan for safe and effective use.
Lunesta Rehab
If you decide you need professional help in overcoming a Lunest addiction, you will find the treatment programs provided at rehab to be more comprehensive.
Lunesta addiction treatment & rehab combines various treatment methods that ultimately enable individuals to overcome the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
Although Lunesta addiction treatment & rehab is not a quick fix and requires complete dedication, attending rehab for treatment is extremely beneficial and worthwhile.
Typically, treatment for Lunesta addiction consists of detoxification, rehabilitation and aftercare support. However, the treatment program will depend on the facility attended and also the severity of your addiction.
Certain treatment centres specialise in different addictions and provide differing treatment options. To find the best Lunesta rehab center and one in a geographically convenient location,
At the absolute minimum, you will need to be accessing a CQC-registered treatment provider, one that can safely see you through a Lunesta detox and manage the withdrawal process.
How Lunesta Lunesta Addiction Is Treated
To get over Lunesta and other prescription drug addictions, you will be expected to stay at one of our recommended treatment centres for up to 28 days.
Some patients do require longer stays but most people complete treatment and rehab within 28 days.
Lunesta users will begin a comprehensive rehabilitation programme that combines the following treatments in rehab to secure a long-term recovery.
- A medically induced detoxification
- Rehabilitation
- One-to-one therapy
- Group therapy
- Psychological therapy
- Well-being therapy
- Learn healthy sleep habits
The 1st stage of the treatments noted above will see sees those in recovery withdraw from Lunesta through a medically induced detoxification.
While detoxification can be slightly unpleasant, this specific treatment removes any harmful toxins from the body and brain. We can also use other drugs to manage any adverse effects, and you will be in the best place to undertake detoxification. Once past this point, cravings for Lunesta gradually decrease.
Following a successful detoxification programme, rehabilitation is provided. Rehabilitation sees those in recovery undergo various therapies, including cognitive behavioural therapy, individual and group therapy, stress management, relapse prevention, yoga and even mediation.
These therapies help many come to terms with their addiction and address the root cause of their sleep disorder. Furthermore, therapies are designed to help many change their mindset and develop healthy coping skills.
Following a Lunesta addiction treatment programme, 12-months of free aftercare support is provided. Aftercare support encourages those in recovery to attend regular group meetings.
In some instances, aftercare support sees individuals continue to receive one-to-one group therapy if they are particularly struggling after a long history of Lunesta abuse.
Learn How to Sleep Better
There there are several alternatives to prescription sleep aids like Lunesta that are not addictive. In rehab you will also learn some new sleeping techniques after you have completed a medical detox.Some of these alternatives include:
- Cognitive-behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT): This is a type of therapy that focuses on changing thoughts and behaviours that contribute to insomnia. CBT-I has been shown to be effective in treating insomnia and is a non-addictive option.
- Sleep hygiene: This involves making changes to your sleep environment and bedtime routine to promote better sleep. Examples include avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, establishing a regular sleep schedule, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine.
- Relaxation techniques: Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation can help calm the mind and body and promote better sleep.
- Herbal supplements: Some natural supplements, such as melatonin, valerian root, and chamomile, have been shown to be effective in promoting sleep and are non-addictive.
The rehab team will discuss alternatives with you before starting any new treatment for insomnia, including alternative therapies and supplements. They can help you determine the best course of action based on your individual needs and health history.
Other Lunesta Addiction Treatment Options
If you access treatment through local charities or NHS services, these treatments will generally be administered as an outpatient.
Those who secure outpatient Lunesta treatment will be expected complete detoxification in their own home environment.
Although some people favour outpatient rehab as they do not have to leave home for a period of time, the results can vary.
Medical Alternative
There are also other drugs to consider; Melatonin is generally considered a non-addictive sleeping pill. It is a hormone that is naturally produced by the body and is involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin supplements are available over-the-counter and are commonly used to help with sleep problems, such as insomnia.
While melatonin is generally considered safe and non-addictive, it can have potential side effects and risks. These can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, daytime sleepiness, and changes in blood pressure or blood sugar levels. It is important to talk to a doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before taking melatonin, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
It is also important to use melatonin as directed and not to exceed the recommended dose, as taking too much can lead to unwanted side effects. Additionally, melatonin should not be used as a long-term solution for sleep problems, as it may interfere with the body’s natural hormone production.
Contact Us To Understand Your Lunesta Addiction Treatment & Rehab Options In Greater Detail
Understanding Lunesta addiction treatment & rehab can be tricky, especially when various treatment & rehab options exist.
To ensure that you can understand your Lunesta addiction treatment & rehab options in greater detail, we welcome you to contact us today.
In doing so, we can discuss your addiction with you, provide you with personalised guidance and support and ensure that you are able to commence treatment as soon as possible.
While we understand that the thought of sharing your struggles with Lunesta will be difficult, especially if you have kept your addiction from your loved ones, doing so will enable you to take the first step in regaining control of your life.
Seth is an author, addiction recovery expert and fully accredited member of the national counselling society. He has experience working with a wide range of addictions and mental illnesses using a number of evidence-based therapies and programmes such as the SMART models of addiction recovery.
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