Ambien vs Lunesta: A Clinical Comparison for Insomnia
If you are working with a prescription sleep medicine, Ambien and Lunesta are two of the most commonly used drugs for insomnia (sleeping difficulty). Both drugs fall under the category of the non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic drug class, and they are intended to control sleeping problems and reduce the sleep-related risk. Although both drugs are Schedule IV controlled substances, based on the potential for misuse. We compare Ambien vs. Lunesta, and the correct choice may depend on whether the primary issue is falling asleep quickly or maintaining sleep throughout the night.
In this blog, we will discuss some key factors, including the differences between Lunesta and Ambien and how Ambien and Lunesta compare in effectiveness. What happens if you take Ambien and Lunesta at the same time? Always consult a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment option for your sleep problems.
What are Ambien and Lunesta?
Ambien (zolpidem) and Lunesta (eszopiclone) are two prescribed drugs that are used to treat insomnia, a common sleeping disorder that affects millions of adults. Both drugs are classified under the drug class known as sedative-hypnotics, which is designed to treat sleep difficulties.
Ambien (Zolpidem)
Ambien (zolpidem) was first approved by the FDA in 1992 and is used short-term to help people fall asleep quickly. It works by slowing the brain activity to help users suffering from insomnia. Ambien is normally prescribed for the short term, and it exists in two primary formulations, namely, immediate-release and extended-release. It has a shorter half-life (about 2.5 hours), which helps to reduce next-day drowsiness.
Lunesta (Eszopiclone)
Lunesta is approved for both onset and maintenance, helping patients stay asleep throughout the night. It works by interacting with GABA receptors in the brain to produce an effect of restful sleep. It has been approved for both long-term and short-term use under medical supervision, making it more effective for those who have trouble staying asleep.
Difference between Lunesta vs Ambien
Lunesta (eszopiclone) and Ambien (zolpidem) are two of the most prescribed medications classified as non-benzodiazepine hypnotics and also known as “Z-drugs.” While both share a similar mechanism of action, they differ in how long they work and what types of insomnia they target.
Some key differences are shown below:
- Ambien is used for short-term treatment, whereas Lunesta is FDA-approved for both short-term and long-term use.
- Lunesta has a longer half-life (around 6 hours), making it effective for those individuals who have trouble staying asleep nightly, and Ambien has a short half-life (2.5 hours), which is useful if someone cannot fall asleep.
- Side effects also differ slightly; Lunesta causes a metallic or bitter taste, whereas Ambien causes next-day drowsiness at higher doses.
- Lunesta comes in 1 mg, 2 mg, and 3 mg tablet strengths, while Ambien comes in only 5 mg and 10 mg strengths.
Which is better: Lunesta or Ambien
The decision between Ambien and Lunesta comes after a consultation with a healthcare professional, considering some of the important factors such as the patient’s age, medication history, and duration of sleep aid.
Lunesta is used for long-term treatment for those who experience difficulty sleeping through the night, and Ambien has a more rapid onset and reduced half-life and is mainly prescribed for individuals who have difficulty falling asleep. Both drugs have equal risks, such as dependence, drowsiness the day after taking them, and complex sleep behavior.
Lunesta vs Ambien: Which is Stronger
Both drugs work to treat insomnia, but of the two, Lunesta is stronger than Ambien when it comes to keeping a person asleep all night.
As far as sedative potency is concerned, Lunesta induces next-day sleepiness, particularly at more substantial doses. Lunesta’s half-life is greater (approximately 6 hours) than Ambien’s half-life (2-3 hours). That is, Lunesta remains active in the system for a prolonged period, making it more suitable for individuals who struggle to fall asleep during the entire night.
Is It Ok To Take Ambien and Lunesta Together
Mixing Ambien (zolpidem) and Lunesta (eszopiclone) is not recommended due to serious side effects. Both drugs are classified as non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotics (Z-drugs), and they work by enhancing the effect of GABA in the brain to promote sleep.
Taking them together does not enhance sleep quality but leads to an increased risk of harmful side effects such as
- Severe drowsiness or next-day grogginess
- Memory loss or confusion
- Unusual sleep behaviors
- Higher risk of overdose or addiction
Ambien vs Lunesta Side Effects
Ambien and Lunesta are both FDA-approved sedative-hypnotic drugs to treat insomnia; though effective, they both have possible side effects, some of which are common, while some are severe. Here, in the table, it is presented how the two drugs have various side effects.
| Side Effect | Ambien (Zolpidem) | Lunesta (Eszopiclone) |
|---|---|---|
| Drowsiness / Daytime Sleepiness | Common | Common, especially if not enough sleep |
| Dizziness or Lightheadedness | Yes | Yes |
| Headache | Common | Common |
| Bitter or Metallic Taste | Rare | Very common (up to 34% of users) |
| Sleepwalking or Complex Sleep Behaviors | Yes (e.g., sleep-driving, eating) | Yes (similar warnings as Ambien) |
| Allergic Reactions (rash, swelling) | Rare | Rare |
| Mood Changes / Depression / Anxiety | Rare but possible | Rare but possible |
| Next-Day Impairment | More likely with Ambien CR or higher doses | an occurrence, especially with 3 mg |
| Nausea or Stomach Upset | Occasionally reported | Less common |
Always take these medications only when you can get a full 7–8 hours of sleep, and never mix them with alcohol, opioids, or other sedatives. Both medications carry an FDA Black Box Warning for their complex sleep behaviors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I take Ambien and Lunesta together at the same time?
Taking Ambien and Lunesta together at the same time is not recommended by the doctor, and it can raise the chance of harmful side effects. These medications are used individually under the guidance of a healthcare provider and typically for short-term use only.
Are Ambien and Lunesta the same?
Ambien and Lunesta are not identical, although they act similarly, but vary in certain aspects, such as how fast they act, how long they last, and which sleeping issues they address.
How do Ambien and Lunesta compare in effectiveness?
Ambien and Lunesta are both effective treatments for insomnia but may be effective differently based on the quality of sleep. Clinically demonstrated to both improve overall sleep quality, Lunesta allows for more consistent sleep duration, whereas Ambien provides for the immediate onset of sleep.
Conclusion:
Compared to Ambien vs Lunesta, both are highly effective drugs for short-term insomnia but have different onsets, durations, and side effects. Always seek a healthcare provider to decide the best treatment for your insomnia, and long-term sleep health is optimally maintained by good sleep hygiene and, where indicated, behavioral therapy.
