Effects of Eszopiclone on Sleep-dependent Learning in Schizophrenia

Effects of Eszopiclone on Sleep-dependent Learning in Schizophrenia

This study will determine whether eszopiclone will normalize sleep patterns and restore sleep-dependent enhancement of motor skill learning in patients with schizophrenia. The investigators will compare subjects taking a placebo to those taking 3 mg of eszopiclone with regard to: sleep architecture and sleep latency as measured by actigraphy and polysomnography and sleep-dependent motor skill learning.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Clinically stable outpatients with DSM-IV diagnoses of Schizophrenia

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of neurologic or psychiatric disease other than schizophrenia
• Substance abuse or dependence within the past six months
• Other chronic medical conditions that affect sleep
• Pregnancy/breast feeding
• Hepatic impairment
• Treatment with metabolic inhibitors or inducers