Key takeaways
Lunesta (eszopiclone) and Butisol (butabarbital) are both medications used to help with sleep, but they have some key differences. Lunesta is a sedative-hypnotic that is available as a generic and is used to treat insomnia by helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. It is a Schedule IV controlled substance, meaning it has some potential for misuse and dependence. On the other hand, Butisol is a barbiturate that was known for its fast-acting effects but has been discontinued and is no longer available in the U.S. as either a brand or generic medication. Butisol was a Schedule III controlled substance, indicating a higher potential for misuse compared to Lunesta. While Lunesta can cause side effects like a bad taste in the mouth and headache, Butisol was known to be habit-forming and addicting. If you need a sleep aid, Lunesta is still an option, but Butisol is not available anymore.
