Recent Blog Articles
Close relationships with neighbors influence cardiovascular health in Black adults
Why play? Early games build bonds and brain
5 numbers linked to ideal heart health
Rating the drugs in drug ads
Postpartum anxiety is invisible, but common and treatable
The popularity of microdosing of psychedelics: What does the science say?
Pouring from an empty cup? Three ways to refill emotionally
Is pregnancy safe for everyone?
New pediatric guidelines on obesity in children and teens
Screening tests may save lives — so when is it time to stop?
By the way, doctor: Should I take Lunesta to help me sleep?
Q. I have chronic problems sleeping. I hear that Lunesta, a sleeping pill, can be taken long-term. Is that true? Do you recommend it?
A. Lunesta (eszopiclone) is the newest member of a class of prescription sleeping pills called nonbenzodiazepines, which includes zolpidem (Ambien) and zaleplon (Sonata)—also known as Z drugs. These drugs have risen rapidly in popularity, overtaking benzodiazepine medications such as lorazepam (Ativan) and temazepam (Restoril). One of the problems with the older benzodiazepine drugs is that people develop tolerance if they're taken for longer than 10 days. If you take them regularly, you may need to keep raising the dose to get the same effect.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
Free Healthbeat Signup
Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!
