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Eszopiclone: A novel cyclopyrrolone with potential benefit in both transient and chronic insomnia (PDF)
Benzodiazepines are the gold standard for the treatment of insomnia. However, because of their potential for pharmacologic dependence and withdrawal reactions upon discontinuation, they are neither recommended or FDA-approved for chronic use. The novel cyclopyrrolone eszopiclone (es zoe pik? lone) (Estorra, Sepracor) is a stereoselective isomer of the agent zopiclone, which has been available in Europe for more than a decade. Clinical trials in patients with chronic insomnia suggest the medication may help manage both transient and chronic insomnia with minimal side effects. The most commonly reported side effect with the agent is a bitter taste. The apparent efficacy and favorable side effect profile together with its potential for obtaining the first indication for the management of chronic insomnia in the United States make eszopiclone an attractive therapeutic option. If the drug is approved by FDA, a key issue for formulary decision-makers will be whether to make it openly available or through prior authorization for specific clinical situations. Eszopiclone?s pricing may ultimately determine its use by clinical psychiatrists and reimbursement by insurers.
Employers Face Barriers With Adopting Biosimilars
March 1st 2022Despite the promise of savings billions of dollars in the United States, adoption of biosimilars has been slow. A roundtable discussion among employers highlighted some of the barriers, including formulary design and drug pricing and rebates.
