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Eszopiclone vs. Zaleplon

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

Zaleplon, once sold under the brand name Sonata, is a prescription sleep medication for adults. It helps with insomnia (trouble falling asleep). It's a type of sedative-hypnotic called a non-benzodiazepine, or "z-drug." You take it by mouth right before bed or when you're already in bed and can't fall asleep. Zaleplon is a controlled substance because it has a risk of misuse and dependence. Side effects can include headache and dizziness.

• Insomnia (trouble falling asleep)

• Headache (up to 42%)
• Dizziness (up to 9%)
• Nausea (up to 8%)
• Weakness (up to 7%)
• Sleepiness the next day (6%)
• Stomach pain (up to 6%)

• Doing things while not fully awake
• Sleepiness and trouble focusing the next day
• Dependence and withdrawal
• Abnormal thoughts and unusual behavior
• Severe allergic reaction
• Caution use in people with breathing problems or depression