What Happens When Taking Lunesta and Alcohol?

Mixing Lunesta and alcohol can lead to significant consequences. When these two medications are combined, the sedative effects can be greatly increased. This is because both substances act as central nervous system depressants. This combination may cause increased sleepiness, dizziness, and trouble breathing, as well as impairment of cognitive and motor functioning, and it could even increase the risk of death. It is worth noting that a large number of emergency room visits related to prescribed sleep pills involve the consumption of alcohol at the same time. 

It is noteworthy to say that one-fifth of those who misused sleeping pills also struggled with alcoholism, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The potential side effects of taking these medications at the same time should be communicated to patients by their healthcare providers. Understanding the impact of Lunesta on alcohol is crucial for prioritizing patient safety and minimizing health hazards.

What Are the Side Effects of Lunesta?

Lunesta (eszopiclone) is associated with some adverse effects that vary in severity and frequency. Common adverse effects include tiredness and dizziness, which can last into the next day and affect everyday activities and performance. Users frequently report mild to moderate headaches and an unpleasant metallic or bitter taste in their mouth. In addition, dry mouth is a common symptom that can cause discomfort and probable dental problems in the long run.

Rare but possibly severe adverse effects may include memory issues, such as short-term memory loss or difficulty recalling facts. These effects may be more pronounced if the person does not get enough sleep after taking the medicine. Among possible behavioral changes are agitation, hallucinations, depression, and suicidal thoughts. People have been recorded to have completed complex actions while partially awake, including sleepwalking, driving, eating, and calling others. Participating in these activities might cause some memory loss, among other risks.

Serious adverse effects, such as allergic responses, may occur rarely and necessitate emergency medical intervention. These responses can cause facial, lips, tongue, and neck swelling, making breathing difficult. Respiratory depression is a significant concern that may arise when Lunesta is combined with other central nervous system depressants, like alcohol. To minimize these risks, patients must take Lunesta only under the guidance of a healthcare professional and adhere strictly to the prescribed dosages.

What is The Impact of Taking These Together?

Alcohol and Lunesta both have depressive effects on the central nervous system, which makes their combination potentially dangerous and deadly. When these medications are taken together, the sedative impact may be increased and cause excessive fatigue, confusion, and difficulty coordinating. Serious injuries may arise from falls and accidents caused by the increased sedation. Additionally, there is a considerable impact on cognitive abilities such as judgment, memory, and decision-making, which raises the risk of engaging in risky activities and making poor decisions.

Drinking alcohol and Lunesta together increases the chance of respiratory depression, which is characterized by shallow, sluggish breathing. Insufficient oxygen levels in the blood can result in a significant medical emergency. In severe cases, respiratory depression can progress to respiratory arrest, causing complete stoppage of breathing. This can cause unconsciousness or perhaps death. Those with a history of respiratory problems or those using drugs that affect the central nervous system are especially in danger.

Lunesta taken with alcohol also increases the risk of dependency and addiction. Combining two substances with addiction potential increases the risk of substance use disorder. Quitting or reducing both medicines at once can be difficult since it may interfere with therapy and recovery. Doctors advise against mixing Lunesta with alcohol to avoid health risks.

Here is a summary of this information:

Is It a Deadly Combination?

Yes, Lunesta and alcohol can cause death when taken together. Both drugs inhibit brain activity and can impair breathing as central nervous system depressants. They enhance each other when combined. This combination can cause severe drowsiness, cognitive and motor impairment, and, most importantly, respiratory depression.

Respiratory depression can cause shallow or halted breathing, oxygen depletion, and coma or death. Those with underlying health issues or larger doses of either chemical are at risk.

Due to these concerns, doctors advise against mixing Lunesta and alcohol. To avoid life-threatening side effects, Lunesta users must follow their doctor's advice and avoid alcohol. If you or someone around you mistakenly or intentionally make this combination and start experiencing symptoms, you should immediately call 911.

What Other Interactions Lunesta Has?

Lunesta can have substantial interactions -besides alcohol- with other drugs and substances. When used with other central nervous system depressants, such as benzodiazepines or opioids, sedation might worsen, and the risk of respiratory depression increases.

Muscle relaxants such as baclofen and carisoprodol can exacerbate Lunesta's sleepy effects. Furthermore, certain antibiotics, antipsychotics, and antidepressants may alter Lunesta's metabolism, increasing the risk of side effects such as dizziness. Grapefruit juice and azole antifungals also alter Lunesta's metabolism.

Patients should inform their doctor about any medications, supplements, or other products they are currently utilizing. This ensures the safe use of Lunesta and helps to avoid any interactions.

When you Should Seek Help?

Recognizing when to seek treatment for problems with Lunesta and alcohol is critical for your health and safety. When these drugs are used simultaneously, they can amplify each other's effects, resulting in severe drowsiness, poor coordination, and respiratory depression. This combination increases the chance of accidents, injuries, and even life-threatening crises like respiratory arrest. If you or someone you know is suffering excessive drowsiness, confusion, trouble breathing, or loss of consciousness after taking Lunesta and alcohol concurrently, seek immediate medical assistance to avoid serious harm.

Furthermore, dependence on Lunesta or alcohol, as seen by an inability to function without them or withdrawal symptoms while attempting to discontinue, suggests the need for professional help. If you notice any changes in behavior, mood swings, or cognitive function while using these substances together, such as increased aggression, depression, or memory problems, it is important to seek help, as these can be concerning symptoms.

Getting assistance at an early stage can be crucial in stopping the advancement of substance abuse issues and minimizing associated health risks. Seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, counselors, or addiction specialists can offer personalized assistance and treatment options to tackle the specific concerns associated with combining Lunesta and alcohol. It is crucial to prioritize your well-being and promptly seek treatment for effective management of substance use.

If you or a loved one are struggling with drug abuse or concurrent use of drugs and alcohol, you can use our Treatment Center Finder to locate the right place to get help.