Medications

Eszopiclone

Eszopiclone

Previously Found with Medfinder

Comprehensive medication guide to {drug} including estimated pricing, availability information, side effects, and how to find it in stock at your local pharmacy.

Estimated Insurance Pricing
$10–$50 copay; Tier 2–3 generic, some plans may require prior authorization.
Estimated Cash Pricing
$17–$340 retail for 30 tablets; as low as $17 with GoodRx or SingleCare coupons.
Medfinder Findability Score
70
/100
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Post Author

Peter Daggett

Last Updated

February 24, 2026

Eszopiclone 2026 Availability, Prices, and Tips to Find

What Is Eszopiclone?

Eszopiclone is a prescription sleep medication (sedative-hypnotic) used to treat insomnia. It is the active S-isomer of Zopiclone and is sold under the brand name Lunesta. Eszopiclone is FDA-approved for both sleep-onset and sleep-maintenance insomnia, meaning it can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Unlike some other sleep aids, Eszopiclone is approved for longer-term use and does not carry the same short-term-only restrictions. It is taken as a tablet immediately before bedtime, and patients should plan for at least 7–8 hours of sleep after taking it.

How does Eszopiclone work?

Eszopiclone works by enhancing the activity of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter that slows brain activity. It acts as a positive allosteric modulator at GABA-A receptors, meaning it increases the calming effect of GABA already present in the brain. This promotes relaxation, reduces the time it takes to fall asleep, and helps maintain sleep throughout the night. Although it acts on the same receptor system as benzodiazepines, Eszopiclone is classified as a non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic (cyclopyrrolone class) and has a somewhat different binding profile.

What doses are available for Eszopiclone?

  • 1 mg tablet — Recommended starting dose for elderly patients or those with severe liver impairment
  • 2 mg tablet — Common starting dose for most adults; also the max dose when taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors
  • 3 mg tablet — Maximum dose for adults who need additional efficacy for sleep maintenance

How hard is it to find Eszopiclone in stock?

Eszopiclone is generally available at most pharmacies across the United States. As of early 2026, it is not listed on the FDA or ASHP drug shortage databases. Generic Eszopiclone is manufactured by multiple companies, which helps maintain steady supply. However, because Eszopiclone is a Schedule IV controlled substance, individual pharmacies may occasionally experience brief supply disruptions. If your local pharmacy is out of stock, calling nearby pharmacies or using Medfinder can help you locate it quickly.

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Who Can Prescribe Eszopiclone?

Eszopiclone can be prescribed by a variety of healthcare providers, including:

  • Primary care physicians and family medicine doctors — Most commonly prescribe Eszopiclone for straightforward insomnia
  • Internists — Often manage insomnia alongside other medical conditions
  • Psychiatrists — Prescribe Eszopiclone for insomnia related to anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions
  • Sleep medicine specialists — For complex or treatment-resistant insomnia
  • Neurologists — May prescribe when insomnia is linked to neurological conditions

Eszopiclone is also available through telehealth platforms, making it convenient to get a prescription without an in-person visit.

Is Eszopiclone a controlled substance?

Yes, Eszopiclone is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance by the DEA. This means it has a recognized medical use but carries a risk of physical or psychological dependence if misused. As a controlled substance, Eszopiclone prescriptions have certain restrictions — for example, refills may be limited, and pharmacies may not always keep large quantities in stock. Your doctor will monitor your use and may periodically reassess whether continued treatment is appropriate.

Common Side Effects of Eszopiclone

  • Unpleasant or metallic taste — Reported in up to 34% of patients; the most distinctive side effect of Eszopiclone
  • Headache — Occurs in up to 21% of patients
  • Daytime drowsiness — May impair driving or other activities the next day
  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth
  • Upper respiratory infection symptoms
  • Abnormal dreams

Serious side effects include complex sleep behaviors (sleepwalking, sleep-driving), severe allergic reactions, worsening depression, memory impairment, and risk of dependence. The FDA requires a boxed warning about complex sleep behaviors. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these.

Alternative Medications to Eszopiclone

  • Zolpidem (Ambien) — Another non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic available in immediate-release and extended-release forms; Schedule IV
  • Suvorexant (Belsomra) — An orexin receptor antagonist with a different mechanism of action; may be preferred for sleep maintenance issues
  • Lemborexant (Dayvigo) — A newer orexin receptor antagonist effective for both falling asleep and staying asleep
  • Ramelteon (Rozerem) — A melatonin receptor agonist that is not a controlled substance; best suited for difficulty falling asleep

Drug Interactions with Eszopiclone

  • Alcohol — Contraindicated; causes additive CNS depression and increases risk of complex sleep behaviors
  • Opioids — Increased risk of severe sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death
  • Other CNS depressants (benzodiazepines, antihistamines, antipsychotics) — Additive sedation effects
  • Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Clarithromycin, Ritonavir) — Increase Eszopiclone levels; max dose limited to 2 mg
  • CYP3A4 inducers (Rifampin, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin) — May reduce Eszopiclone's effectiveness

Avoid taking Eszopiclone with or immediately after a high-fat meal, as this delays absorption and reduces its effectiveness. Grapefruit juice may also increase Eszopiclone levels.

Final Thoughts on Eszopiclone

Eszopiclone is a well-established and effective treatment for insomnia that has been available in generic form for years, making it an affordable option for many patients. With no active shortages reported in 2026, most patients should be able to find it at their local pharmacy without difficulty. If your pharmacy happens to be out of stock, use Medfinder to quickly locate nearby pharmacies that have Eszopiclone available. Always take Eszopiclone exactly as prescribed, allow for a full night's sleep, and discuss any concerns about side effects or dependence with your healthcare provider.

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