Eszopiclone

Products

Eszopiclone is commercially available in the United States in the form of film-coated tablets (Lunesta). The drug is not registered in many countries. In contrast, the racemate zopiclone (Imovane) is on the market.

Structure and properties

Eszopiclone (C₁₇H₁₇ClN₆O₃, M_r = 388.8 g/mol) is the -enantiomer of zopiclone. It belongs to the cyclopyrrolones. Eszopiclone exists as a white to slightly yellow crystalline powder and is very slightly soluble in water.

Effects

Eszopiclone (ATC N05CF04) has sleep-inducing, depressant, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant properties. As with the benzodiazepines, the effects are due to binding to the GABA_A receptor.

Indications

For short-term treatment of sleep disorders.