What is Zopiclone?

Zopiclone is a nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic medication used to treat short-term insomnia. It has hypnotic and anxiolytic properties, working by regulating the GABA receptor to relax the brain and nerves. Zopiclone is available in tablets and liquid forms, both with the same chemical formulation.

Zopiclone Uses

Zopiclone is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant that helps you fall asleep quickly and stay asleep. It is typically used for a short duration, such as one or two days, and not more than one or two weeks, to avoid loss of effectiveness.

Zopiclone Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

  • Dizziness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Bitter or metallic taste

Serious Side Effects:

  • Amnesia
  • Hallucinations
  • Delusions
  • Depression
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Epilepsy

Common side effects usually do not require medical attention and may disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. Seek immediate medical attention for serious or rare side effects.

Precautions

Before taking Zopiclone, inform your doctor if you have any allergies or medical conditions, including:

  • Kidney failure
  • Liver disease
  • Respiratory disorders
  • Myasthenia gravis
  • History of opioid addiction
  • Depression
  • Epilepsy

Tell your doctor about any over-the-counter or prescription medications you are taking, such as antidepressants, epilepsy medications, narcotic pain relievers, or sedatives.

How to Use Zopiclone

Take Zopiclone at night, just before bed. Swallow the tablet whole without crushing or chewing. It can be taken with or without food. The medication starts working almost immediately, so take it when you are ready to sleep.

Dosages and Strength

Zopiclone is available in tablet and liquid forms, with strengths of 3.75 mg and 7.5 mg. The typical dose is 7.5 mg taken just before bed, which takes about one hour to work. For elderly people or those with kidney or liver problems, a lower dose of 3.75 mg may be recommended to reduce the risk of excessive sleepiness and other side effects. Follow your doctor’s instructions precisely.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, skip it and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or an extra dose to make up for a missed dose.

Overdose

Signs of overdose include:

  • Extreme drowsiness
  • Confusion
  • Deep sleep
  • Coma
  • Muscle weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Loss of balance
  • Breathing problems

If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Warnings

Pregnancy: Avoid taking Zopiclone during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn child, increase the risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and withdrawal symptoms in the newborn.

Breastfeeding: Zopiclone can transfer into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC), away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Zopiclone vs Diazepam

Zopiclone Diazepam
Nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic Benzodiazepine
Used for short-term treatment of insomnia Used for anxiety, agitation, tremors, delirium, seizures, and hallucinations
CNS depressant CNS depressant
Common side effects: dizziness, lightheadedness, bitter taste Common side effects: drowsiness, fatigue, muscle weakness, headache
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