NJ
A 23-year-old male asked:
Do nonbenzodiazepine z drugs like lunesta (eszopiclone) and ambien disrupt sleep architecture?
3 doctor answers • 7 doctors weighed in
Dr. Randy Bakeranswered
Holistic Medicine 42 years experience
Yes-with chronic use: Good question. The "z drugs" disrupt sleep less than benzodiazepines but there is evidence that there is some disruption with chronic use that becomes a big problem when people try to stop taking these drugs. See http://www.Mylwi.Com/ehealth-newsletter/why-you-shouldnt-confuse-ambien-use-with-sleep/ & http://weeksmd.Com/2013/04/sleeping-pills-and-death/ & http://bit.Ly/17uogmu for details.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Klaus d Lessnauanswered
Pulmonary Critical Care 38 years experience
Yes: There are side effects with all sleep medications, including above.
There are also issues with memory loss and sleep walking and sweating and more.
Melatonin is otc and probably safer, best to check with a certified sleep doc.
It is exciting that the smart phones will be able to monitor sleep much better in the future. Then you will get an answer. Meanwhile, an ambulatory sleep monitor will do.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Judith Tellermananswered
Clinical Psychology 44 years experience
It would be best to discuss this with your Psychiatrist. If you are not confident with your Doctor see another for a second opinion. It's good to have a physical exam to rule out illness. Sleep is very important for physical and mental health. You may need a sleep study to determine why you can't sleep. Also consult with a Clinical Psychologist with expertise in multiple types of psychotherapy.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Answered Apr 28, 2021
Similar questions
NJ
A 23-year-old male asked:
Do nonbenzodiazepines z drugs like Ambien and lunesta (eszopiclone) disrupt sleep architecture?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Adam Trippanswered
Psychiatry 17 years experience
Yes: Actually, Ambien and Lunesta (eszopiclone) are benzodiazepines they have more specific activity for selective receptors directed at sedation, and have a short half life or time in your system, but they affect sleep architecture just like other benzodiazepines or alcohol, just in a milder manner.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Apr 28, 2021
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