Comprehensive medication guide to Eszopiclone 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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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.
Eszopiclone works by enhancing the activity of , 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.
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1 mg tablet — tablet
Recommended starting dose for elderly patients or those with severe liver impairment
2 mg tablet — tablet
Common starting dose for most adults; also the max dose when taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors
3 mg tablet — tablet
Maximum dose for adults who need additional efficacy for sleep maintenance
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.
Eszopiclone can be prescribed by a variety of healthcare providers, including:
Eszopiclone is also available through telehealth platforms, making it convenient to get a prescription without an in-person visit.
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.
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.
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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
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Alcohol
moderateContraindicated; causes additive CNS depression and increases risk of complex sleep behaviors
Opioids
moderateIncreased risk of severe sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death
Other CNS depressants
moderate(benzodiazepines, antihistamines, antipsychotics) — Additive sedation effects
Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors
moderate(Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Clarithromycin, Ritonavir) — Increase Eszopiclone levels; max dose limited to 2 mg
CYP3A4 inducers
moderate(Rifampin, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin) — May reduce Eszopiclone's effectiveness
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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