Medinest Health Articles
Restoril vs. Lunesta: Differences, Side Effects and Safety Guide
Restoril is the brand name for temazepam, a benzodiazepine. Lunesta is the brand name for eszopiclone, a nonbenzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic. Both are prescription medicines used for insomnia, but they are different drugs and have distinct warnings. A prescriber decides whether either is appropriate for an individual.
How are they different?
Temazepam belongs to the benzodiazepine class and is labeled for short-term treatment of insomnia. Eszopiclone is a different type of sedative-hypnotic; its labeling says it can help with falling asleep and staying asleep. Both medicines can cause drowsiness and impaired alertness, and both are federally controlled in the United States.
| Topic | Restoril (temazepam) | Lunesta (eszopiclone) |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine class | Benzodiazepine | Nonbenzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic |
| Labeled use | Short-term treatment of insomnia | Treatment of insomnia |
| Notable safety concern | Misuse, dependence and withdrawal risks | Complex sleep behaviors, including sleep-driving |
Side effects and important warnings
Temazepam can cause drowsiness, tiredness, dizziness, headache, nervousness, or nausea. Its prescribing information warns about abuse, misuse, addiction, physical dependence, and potentially serious withdrawal. Risk can increase with ongoing use, and stopping suddenly after continued use may be dangerous.
Eszopiclone can cause an unpleasant taste, dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, or headache. Its boxed warning describes complex sleep behaviors, such as sleep-walking or sleep-driving, that can cause serious injury. Anyone who experiences such behavior should contact their healthcare professional promptly and follow the medicine’s prescribing information.
Combining sedative medicines with alcohol, opioids, or other medicines that cause sleepiness can be dangerous. Temazepam’s label specifically warns that combining benzodiazepines with opioids can cause profound sedation and breathing problems. Tell your prescriber and pharmacist about all medicines and substances you use.
Which one may be right for you?
There is no single choice that is best for everyone. A clinician considers the type of sleep difficulty, medical history, other medicines, age, and individual risks. Do not use someone else’s prescription or switch between these medicines on your own. Ask your prescriber about non-medicine options and the plan for reviewing treatment.
Sources
Reviewed October 2026. Medicine labeling can change; consult the current prescribing information and a qualified healthcare professional.