Are Lunesta Hallucinations Common in Users?

A healthy sleep schedule is crucial for both mental and physical well-being.[1] When individuals do not get enough sleep, they may struggle to concentrate or perform everyday tasks, increasing the risk of injury.[2] Additionally, insufficient sleep can lead to slower reaction times, impaired cognitive functions, and even compromised digestion.[3]

To address sleep disorders, many individuals turn to medications like Lunesta. While this medication can help improve sleep, it is important to be aware of potential side effects.[4] Uncommon but concerning side effects, such as sleepwalking and hallucinations, may prompt some individuals to consider switching to alternative treatments.

What is Lunesta Prescribed For?

Lunesta, also known as eszopiclone, is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic agent prescribed to individuals with insomnia. This sleep disorder is marked by the inability to fall or stay asleep. Lunesta is thought to correct imbalances in the brain that may be present in individuals with insomnia, thereby contributing to better sleep patterns. It is a short-acting medication, so most users will fall asleep within 30 minutes of taking it.[5]

Lunesta Dosing

Physicians are recommended to prescribe the lowest effective dose for their patients.[6] However, the recommended initial dose is 1 mg immediately at bedtime.[6] This dose may be increased in 1 mg increments until reaching a max of 3 mg.[6]

Special dosing:[6]

• Geriatric patients: 1 mg to 2 mg max
• Patients with hepatic impairment: 1 mg to 2 mg max
• Inhibitors: 1 mg to 2 mg max

Lunesta is a Controlled Substance 

Lunesta is considered a Schedule IV Controlled Substance because it has a potential for abuse and addiction.[7] Using Lunesta in a way other than prescribed can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve good sleep. Since the maximum dose any person can take is 3 mg, developing a tolerance can render this medication ineffective.[8]

Additionally, using more Lunesta than prescribed can lead to severe side effects, some life-threatening, as will taking doses too close together.

What are the Typical Side Effects of Lunesta?

Lunesta is a sedative that enhances the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain.[9] This action slows down brain activity, which can cause drowsiness and result in a number of side effects.

Most users experience sedative effects along with the following:[9]

• Altered taste
• Dry mouth
• Daytime drowsiness (sleepiness the next day)
• Drowsiness after waking up
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Headache
• Cold symptoms

Black Box Warning 

Medications that cause dangerous side effects must carry a black box warning as required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Lunesta carries a black box warning to inform consumers of complex sleep behaviors that may result in injury or death.[10]

These behaviors include:[11]

• Sleepwalking
• Performing activities while not fully alert
• Memory loss (not remembering what you did during the night)

When taking Lunesta, some individuals are reported as having phone conversations, driving a car, or having sex while they are asleep. This is called somnambulism. Some may also have suicidal thoughts or display aggressive behaviors.

Does Lunesta Cause Hallucinations?

One of the lesser-experienced side effects of Lunesta is hallucinations. People who experience hallucinations while on Lunesta may hear, see, or feel things that are not real.[11] Since it is an uncommon side effect of Lunesta, there aren’t many studies outlining the cause of these hallucinations. However, mixing Lunesta with recreational or illegal drugs can increase the risk of having them.

What to Do If You Experience Lunesta Hallucinations?

If you experience hallucinations while using Lunesta, it is important to contact your prescribing physician immediately. This side effect can be serious and may indicate an intolerance to the medication or a potential interaction with another drug. If you do have hallucinations while taking Lunesta, your doctor may recommend trying different prescription drugs that treat sleep problems, such as Ambien (zolpidem), Sonata (zaleplon), or Restoril (temazepam). They may also suggest an over-the-counter sleep aid supplement such as melatonin.

Are Hallucinations Indicative of a Lunesta Allergy? 

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, abnormal thinking and behavioral changes, such as hallucinations, are indicative of an adverse reaction to Lunesta.[6] People who take doses too close together, double their doses, or take more than the maximum dose are more likely to experience adverse side effects such as hallucinations and difficulty waking up.

It’s important to reiterate that anyone experiencing this symptom should discontinue using Lunesta immediately and contact a healthcare professional right away.

Is There a Way to Avoid Hallucinations When Taking Lunesta? 

Experiencing hallucinations while taking Lunesta as prescribed is uncommon, occurring in only a small percentage of users. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to predict who might be affected by these side effects. However, it’s important to note that mixing Lunesta with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, such as alcohol, can significantly increase the risk of adverse effects, including hallucinations and other behavioral changes. Therefore, while there’s no guaranteed way to avoid hallucinations, being cautious with combination use is crucial.

If you or someone you know are mixing Lunesta with other prescription medications or recreational drugs to feel better, you may have a Lunesta addiction. The longer you misuse Lunesta, the greater the risk of experiencing serious drug interactions or an overdose. Contact Engage Wellness Acton for help quitting.

Frequently Asked Questions