Eszopiclone
Brand names: Lunesta|Last verified: 2026-03-01
FAA Pathway: Do Not Fly — 30-hour wait period required; daily/nightly use is not allowed
Eszopiclone (Lunesta) is a Do Not Fly medication with a mandatory 30-hour wait period after each dose. Occasional use is permitted, but daily or nightly use is not allowed for pilots. The longer wait period compared to zolpidem reflects its longer half-life.
Related Resources
Pilot Tip
Always report all medications on your FAA medical application (Form 8500-8, Item 17a), even OTC medications. Failure to disclose is a far bigger issue than the medication itself.
Certification Details
Sources
- FAA AME Guide — Pharmaceuticals: Sleep Aids (faa.gov/ame_guide/pharm/sleepaids)
Last verified: 2026-03-01
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Eszopiclone allowed for pilots?
The FAA considers Eszopiclone (Lunesta) to be "Conditionally Approved" for medical certification purposes. Eszopiclone (Lunesta) is a Do Not Fly medication with a mandatory 30-hour wait period after each dose. Occasional use is permitted, but daily or nightly use is not allowed for pilots. The longer wait period compared to zolpidem reflects its longer half-life.
What is the FAA status of Eszopiclone?
Eszopiclone has a status of "Conditionally Approved" under FAA medical certification policy. The certification pathway is: Do Not Fly — 30-hour wait period required; daily/nightly use is not allowed.
Can I fly while taking Eszopiclone?
Flying while taking Eszopiclone may be possible through the FAA's Special Issuance process. You will need to meet specific requirements and obtain approval before exercising pilot privileges. Consult an experienced AME for guidance.
Important Notice
The FAA does not publish a comprehensive list of “approved” medications. The information on this page represents our interpretation of publicly available FAA guidance and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, legal advice, or a guarantee of certification outcome.
The primary issue with the FAA is always whether the underlying medical condition — not just the medication — is compatible with safe flight. You should only start, stop, or change medications after consulting your treating physician. Always consult with a qualified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) for guidance specific to your situation. FAA policies are subject to change. ClearedMed is not affiliated with or endorsed by the FAA.