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Eszopiclone vs. Trazodone

Lunesta (eszopiclone) is used to treat insomnia in people over the age of 18. This medication can help you fall asleep faster and wake up fewer times during the night. Lunesta (eszopiclone) belongs to a drug class called sedative-hypnotics, and it's a controlled substance so there are restrictions on how it can be filled and refilled at the pharmacy. You typically only need to take a dose right before bedtime, but it can cause a headache or leave a bad taste in your mouth as a side effect.

• Insomnia (trouble falling or staying asleep)

• Bad taste in mouth (17-34%)
• Headache (17-21%)
• Sleepiness (8-10%)
• Dizziness (5-7%)

• Abnormal sleep behaviors
• Poor mental alertness
• Behavior changes and abnormal thinking
• Severe allergic reactions
• Follow up with provider to check for other reasons for insomnia
• Withdrawal
• Use with caution in older adults and people with certain health conditions

Trazodone is an atypical antidepressant. It's FDA-approved to treat depression in adults, but it isn't a first-choice option. In addition, trazodone is sometimes prescribed off-label for difficulty sleeping (insomnia). This medication is taken by mouth, typically once or a few times a day, depending on your condition. Common side effects of this medication include sleepiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Brand name Desyrel has been discontinued.

• Major depressive disorder (MDD)

• Sleepiness (up to 41%)
• Dry mouth (up to 34%)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness (up to 28%)
• Headache (up to 20%)
• Blurred vision (up to 15%)
• Nausea or vomiting (up to 13%)

• Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
• Serotonin syndrome
• Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
• Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
• Dizziness from lower blood pressure
• Risk of bleeding
• Prolonged and painful erection
• Glaucoma
• Low blood sodium levels
• Withdrawal