Getting your sleep-cycle back on track does not always require medication. In fact, there are many behavioral techniques used to manage insomnia such as "sleep hygiene" that should be tried before a medication.

Here are some tips that you may find helpful:

1. Create a routine.
1. Go to bed at the same time each night during the week and on weekends.
2. Try to wake up at the same time during the week and on weekends.
3. Set your bedtime and wake-up time at least 8 hours apart.


2. Turn your bedroom into a sleep sanctuary.
1. Make it quiet, dark, cool and comfortable.
2. Never use your bed for anything but sleep and intimacy.


3. Live healthy days. Enjoy happy nights.
1. Eat a balanced diet.
2. Don't eat too close to bedtime.
3. Try not to smoke or drink alcohol at night.
4. Don't drink too much of anything before bed.
5. No caffeine within 6 hours of bedtime.
6. Try exercising in the morning or afternoon hours (at least 4 hours before bedtime).
7. Keep a sleep diary to help uncover the cause of your sleep problem and possible solutions.

More options
Lifestyle changes don't work for everyone. So don't be discouraged if you're not having the sleep success you expected. With the help of your doctor, you can explore other options, including:

1. Over-the-counter (OTC) sleep aids
2. Prescription sleep aids, such as Lunesta^® (eszopiclone)
3. Sleep therapy (cognitive behavior therapy)
4. Combination of the above

Remember, it's important to talk to your doctor about insomnia and how it is impacting your life.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION:
Lunesta helps you fall asleep quickly, so take it right before bed. Be sure you have at least eight hours to devote to sleep before becoming active. Until you know how you'll react to Lunesta, you should not drive or operate machinery. Do not take Lunesta with alcohol. Call your doctor right away if after taking Lunesta you walk, drive, eat or engage in other activities while asleep. In rare cases, severe allergic reactions can occur. Most sleep medicines carry some risk of dependency. Do not use sleep medicines for extended periods without first talking to your doctor. Side effects may include unpleasant taste, headache, drowsiness and dizziness. For more information, please see the Lunesta Medication Guide.

The health information contained herein is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace discussions with a health care provider. The products discussed herein may have different product labeling in different countries. All decisions regarding patient care must be made with a health care provider, considering the unique characteristics of the patient. Lunesta is a medicine used to treat Insomnia. Remember that no medicine is for everyone. Only your doctor can prescribe Lunesta for you.