Is Zimovane the same as Zopiclone?
Key Takeaways
Zimovane and Zopiclone are the same medication: The only difference is that Zimovane is the branded version of Zopiclone, but both work in exactly the same way and are used to treat insomnia.
Both medications treat insomnia: Zopiclone and Zimovane are prescribed to help people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer by balancing chemicals in the brain.
Zopiclone is generally cheaper: As a generic medication, Zopiclone tends to be more affordable compared to the branded Zimovane, offering the same therapeutic effects.
Is Zimovane the Same as Zopiclone?
Zimovane and Zopiclone are both widely prescribed medications used to treat insomnia, but many people wonder if there are any significant differences between them. While they share a similar purpose, it's important to understand how they compare in terms of their composition, effectiveness, side effects, and costs. In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about Zimovane and Zopiclone.
What is Zopiclone?
Zopiclone is a prescription-only medication primarily used to treat insomnia. It belongs to a class of drugs called non-benzodiazepine hypnotics, which are sedatives that help to induce and maintain sleep. Zopiclone works by affecting chemicals in the brain, such as GABA, which helps calm the brain and promotes restful sleep. Zopiclone is effective in reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and can help prevent frequent awakenings throughout the night.
What is Zimovane?
Zimovane is essentially the branded version of Zopiclone. Both medications are chemically identical, and they share the same therapeutic effects and mechanisms of action. Zimovane is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic, like Zopiclone, and is used to treat the same sleep disorder—insomnia. Both medications are typically taken orally before bedtime and are designed to help those who have trouble sleeping fall asleep and stay asleep.
What is the Difference Between Zopiclone and Zimovane?
The only significant difference between Zopiclone and Zimovane is branding. Zimovane is the branded version of the generic medication Zopiclone. Both medications contain the same active ingredient and work in the same way to treat insomnia. The main difference lies in the packaging and the price; Zimovane is often more expensive due to its brand name, whereas Zopiclone is typically more affordable as a generic alternative.
Are Zopiclone and Zimovane Used to Treat the Same Medical Conditions?
Yes, Zopiclone and Zimovane are both prescribed to treat the same medical condition—insomnia. Insomnia is characterised by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early, leading to poor-quality sleep. Both medications help by balancing chemicals in the brain, which, when unbalanced, can contribute to sleep disturbances. The goal is to improve sleep onset, quality, and duration.
Do Zimovane and Zopiclone Have the Same Side Effects?
Since Zimovane and Zopiclone are the same medication, they share the same potential side effects. Some common side effects include:
A metallic taste in the mouth
Excessive tiredness the following day
Less common but more serious side effects include:
Memory problems
Depression
Delusions
Hallucinations
If you experience any of these side effects, especially the more serious ones, it is important to consult your doctor.
Why is Zopiclone Better Than Zimovane?
Both Zopiclone and Zimovane have identical active ingredients and offer the same therapeutic effects. However, Zopiclone is often considered better value because it is a generic medication, which means it is typically cheaper than the branded Zimovane.
Do I Need a Prescription for Zimovane?
Yes, Zimovane is a prescription-only medication in the UK. This means you will need to obtain a prescription from a healthcare provider before purchasing it. You can get a prescription for Zimovane by completing an online consultation with PharmXtra, where a registered doctor will review your information and, if suitable, provide a prescription for you.
Do I Need a Prescription for Zopiclone?
Just like Zimovane, Zopiclone is also a prescription-only medication. It is illegal to buy or sell Zopiclone without a prescription. At PharmXtra, you can obtain a prescription for Zopiclone after successfully completing an online consultation with a registered independent prescriber. The consultation helps ensure the medication is appropriate for your condition and health status.
Final Thoughts
Zopiclone and Zimovane are both highly effective medications used to treat insomnia, with their only significant difference being branding. Zopiclone, as the generic version, is generally more affordable, while Zimovane is the branded alternative. Both medications work in the same way and share the same side effects, providing a reliable solution for those struggling with sleep issues. Always follow the guidance of your healthcare provider and consult them if you have any concerns about using these medications.
Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Irfan Siddique MBBS
GMC reference no: 7694522
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