Lunesta Withdrawal: Symptoms, Timeline & Treatment

Many people battling insomnia turn to medications like Lunesta for relief. While sleep aids can be effective, using them long-term or in high doses can trigger physical dependence. When someone becomes dependent on Lunesta and stops using it, they may experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.

This page outlines what to expect from Lunesta detox, the most common withdrawal symptoms, how long it takes to detox from Lunesta, and how to connect with compassionate care.

What is Lunesta

Lunesta (eszopiclone) is a prescription medication often used to help people manage insomnia. It’s a sedative-hypnotic drug that slows brain activity to promote sleep [1]. Lunesta is designed to help people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, enabling them to wake feeling rested rather than groggy.

The medication is generally prescribed only for short-term use. Using Lunesta for more than a few weeks can provoke dependence, causing the body to rely on the medication to sleep. The drug should be used only as directed by a healthcare provider to avoid potential risks and side effects.

What Is Lunesta Withdrawal Like?

Withdrawal from Lunesta occurs when someone dependent on the drug abruptly moderates or discontinues use. The body becomes accustomed to the constant presence of the medication, so when it’s no longer there, it disrupts the body’s natural balance—making it difficult to fall asleep naturally. 

Common withdrawal symptoms of Lunesta include:

• Severe insomnia
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Restlessness
• Sweating
• Shaking and tremors
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headaches
• Muscle cramps
• Fatigue
• Mood swings
• Depression
• Panic attacks

In some cases, withdrawal from Lunesta can lead to more severe issues, like seizures, particularly if someone stops using the drug abruptly without medical oversight. Seeking medical assistance during Lunesta withdrawal can help manage these symptoms safely. Medical professionals can provide support and medications to alleviate symptoms, streamline the transition away from dependence, and reduce the risk of complications.

Why Lunesta Abuse Causes Withdrawal

If someone takes higher doses of Lunesta than prescribed or uses it for longer than directed, this increases the likelihood of developing a physical and psychological dependence on the drug. Any misuse of Lunesta alters the natural balance of brain chemicals, especially those that govern sleep and relaxation [2]. The body starts to rely on Lunesta over time to maintain this balance, making falling asleep and staying calm without the medication challenging.

When someone develops dependence, the side effects of stopping Lunesta present as the body attempts to regain its natural equilibrium. This disruption prompts the presentation of Lunesta withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms tend to increase in severity the longer and more intensely the drug has been abused. Misusing the medication alongside other addictive substances can compound Lunesta withdrawal, making the detox process demanding and potentially dangerous.

What Is Detox for Lunesta Like?

Detoxing from Lunesta is the first fundamental step in the recovery process, helping people overcome dependence and transition to ongoing treatment. Detox means removing the medication from your body in a safe and controlled way. The detox process helps the body adjust to the absence of the medication. Effective detox involves medical supervision in an inpatient or outpatient setting.

During Lunesta withdrawal, a healthcare professional closely monitors your health and vital signs to ensure safety. Rather than abruptly stopping Lunesta, doctors typically reduce your dose gradually—this is known as tapering off [3]. Tapering helps to reduce Lunesta withdrawal symptoms and makes the process more comfortable.

Doctors may prescribe medications to manage withdrawals from Lunesta, like insomnia, anxiety, and nausea. At the same time, support from counselors and therapists can help people cope with the emotional challenges associated with breaking dependence.

Here’s a typical Lunesta withdrawal timeline:

• Days 1 to 2: The initial symptoms of withdrawal from Lunesta manifest within the first 48 hours. These include insomnia, anxiety, sweating, and shaking as the body adjusts to the absence of the medication.
• Days 3 to 7: Lunesta withdrawals peak, with insomnia worsening and anxiety heightening. Physical symptoms like nausea and cramps may present. The first week is the most challenging phase of the Lunesta detox.
• Days 8 to 21: After the first week of detox from Lunesta, symptoms subside. Anxiety and insomnia decrease, and people notice an improvement in their mood and physical well-being.
• Week 4 and beyond: Acute Lunesta withdrawal symptoms fade within 3 weeks, but effects like mild insomnia or occasional anxiety may linger for weeks. Continued support can help people remain abstinent and avoid relapse.

What Happens After Lunesta Detox?

After you complete Lunesta withdrawal, ongoing support and treatment are usually necessary. Here’s what to expect after Lunesta detox:

• Therapy and counseling: Working with a therapist can help you understand why you started using Lunesta and develop new ways to handle stress and sleep problems without relying on medication. Therapy takes place in both one-on-one and group settings.
• Support groups: Joining a peer support group connects you with others dealing with similar experiences. Sharing your story and hearing others can provide encouragement and reduce feelings of isolation as you move beyond Lunesta withdrawal.
• Healthy sleep practices: Improving sleep habits can help you remain Lunesta-free over the long haul. This might include setting a regular sleep schedule, creating a restful environment, and avoiding caffeine or screens before bedtime [4].
• Lifestyle changes: Making positive changes in your daily life, such as exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and finding activities you enjoy, can improve your well-being and reduce the urge to use medications like Lunesta.
• Relapse prevention: Developing strategies to prevent relapse is integral to effective recovery. This includes identifying triggers, learning to deal with cravings, and knowing when to seek help if you start to struggle again.

Continuing your recovery after detox helps you maintain the progress you’ve made. Ongoing therapy enables you to stay on track and address new challenges that arise. Regular check-ins with your doctor or counselor ensure that you remain healthy and continue to move forward. Building a support network with friends and family provides the encouragement you need to stay sober and feel connected during your recovery journey.

Staying in treatment offers many benefits that help you maintain your recovery. It helps you build a solid foundation for a life without the medication, reducing the chance of relapse derailing your recovery. With continued support, you can enjoy better sleep, less anxiety, and a more balanced emotional state, prompting an improved quality of life.

Recovery also provides an opportunity for personal growth, allowing you to develop new skills that enhance your personal and professional life. Participating in support groups instills community and shared understanding, making your journey less isolating. Additionally, ongoing treatment helps you identify and manage any underlying issues that may have contributed to your dependence on Lunesta, ensuring a more comprehensive and lasting recovery.

Recovering from Lunesta dependence is a journey that doesn’t end with detox. By continuing with therapy, support groups, and healthy habits, you can achieve lasting recovery and enjoy a healthier, happier life free from reliance on sleep medications.

Lunesta| FAQs

Does Lunesta need to be tapered?

Yes, tapering Lunesta can reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms. Gradually reducing the dose under medical supervision can help your body adjust more smoothly. Stopping Lunesta suddenly, by contrast, can trigger severe discomfort and health complications.

When will withdrawal symptoms end?

Withdrawal symptoms of Lunesta typically subside within a few weeks. Most people notice a dramatic improvement after the first 2 weeks. That said, some people experience symptoms that persist for a few months as their bodies recalibrate.

What are the symptoms of withdrawal from sleeping pills?

Withdrawal symptoms from sleeping pills may include severe insomnia, anxiety, irritability, sweating, shaking, and nausea. Some people may also experience headaches, muscle cramps, and mood swings. In extreme cases, panic attacks or seizures may manifest.

How long does it take to get Lunesta out of your system?

Lunesta usually leaves your system within a few days of the last use. The drug has a half-life of about 6 hours, so it takes around 30 hours to be eliminated. Traces may remain for longer, though, especially with long-term use.

Detoxing from Lunesta at a Premier Rehab

If you or a loved one needs help getting off Lunesta, reach out to Renaissance Recovery. We can help you find detox centers to streamline the detox process and prepare you for ongoing treatment at one of our California or Florida rehabs.

When you opt for outpatient treatment at Renaissance, you can live at home and attend therapy sessions around your existing commitments.

All prescription drug addictions are unique, so all our treatment plans are personalized to reflect this. Therapies might include:

• Medication management
• Counseling
• Motivational therapies
• Psychotherapies
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Holistic treatments
• Aftercare

Begin your recovery from Lunesta right away by calling 866-330-9449. 

Sources

[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6492503/

[2] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4634348/

[3] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165178123004870

[4] https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-hygiene