The Differences and Similarities of Lunesta vs. Ambien CR:
Lunesta vs. Ambien CR are both drugs in the sedative/hypnotic family. The primary differences between Lunesta vs. Ambien CR are attributed to the medication’s primary drug. When comparing Lunesta vs. Ambien CR, Lunesta utilizes eszopiclone, while Ambien uses Zolpidem. Both of these generics are central nervous agents applied for the treatment of insomnia. When looking at Lunesta vs. Ambien CR, Lunesta was first approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in December of 2004 while Ambien was approved in December of 1992. In Lunesta vs. Ambien CR, Lunesta is manufactured by Sepracor while Ambien is produced by Sanofi-aventis.
Similarities of Ambien CR vs. Lunesta: Prescribing information for Lunesta vs. Ambien CR advises patients to devote at least seven to eight hours of inactivity before consuming the respective drug. Moreover, information concerning Lunesta vs. Ambien CR, state that the user should not drive or operative heavy machinery while under the influence of the respective sedative.
Both Ambien CR vs. Lunesta issue warnings concerning possible addiction or dependency; both Lunesta vs. Ambien CR are designed for short term use; however, the recommended dosage period for Ambien CR is far less—Ambien CR should not be taken for more than two weeks, while Lunesta can be prescribed for months at a time.
The primary difference between Lunesta vs. Ambien CR is that Ambien CR comes in 6.25 and 12.5 time-released tablets, whereas Lunesta is not a time-released drug and comes in 1 mg, 2mg, 3 mg, 4mg and 6mg doses. Because of the decreased dosage, Lunesta may be taken for a longer period of time than Ambien CR>
Side Effects Associated with Ambien CR vs. Lunesta:
When looking at the side effects of Ambien CR vs. Lunesta, one must understand that according to the leaflet provided by Lunesta, possible side effects include: abnormal behavior and thoughts, confusion, agitation, worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, memory loss and hallucinations. The most common side effects, when comparing Lunesta vs. Ambien CR, of Lunesta include: dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, symptoms of the common cold and headaches. If any of these side effects present themselves, patients are encouraged to contact their medical professional.
When looking at Ambien CR vs. Lunesta, the side effects of Ambien are similar to those of Lunesta; they include: aggressive behavior, confusion, agitation, abnormal behavior and thoughts, worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts, memory loss and general anxiety. The most common side effects, when looking at Lunesta vs. Ambien CR, of Ambien include: sleepiness, dizziness and headaches.
Both Ambien CR vs. Lunesta, issue similar warnings: it is never smart to drink alcohol or combine medications that cause drowsiness when taking either sleep agent. You should stop taking either Lunesta vs. Ambien CR, if you still cannot fall asleep—in this instance you must contact your doctor.
Overall, when viewing the similarities and differences between Lunesta vs. Ambien CR, one must remember that both drugs are administered to patients to help them sleep and stay asleep. That being said, the primary differences between Lunesta vs. Ambien CR will present themselves on a case by case basis—some patients will prefer Ambien while others will experience less side effects with Lunesta.
