Top 10 Things To Know About Zopiclone
Key Takeaways
Primary Use: Zopiclone is prescribed for short-term insomnia and is generally used to help individuals fall asleep and stay asleep.
Duration: Zopiclone is typically prescribed for 7-14 days to avoid dependence and tolerance.
Safety Considerations: Zopiclone can interact with alcohol, cause drowsiness the next day, and should not be mixed with machinery or driving.
What Is Zopiclone Used For?
Zopiclone is a sedative-hypnotic medication, primarily prescribed for short-term treatment of insomnia, a condition where individuals struggle with falling asleep or staying asleep. It works by affecting gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which has a calming effect, helping you to sleep. It’s typically prescribed for acute insomnia, which might occur due to stress, life events, or environmental changes.
Zopiclone is not intended for long-term use, as its effectiveness can reduce over time, and long-term use could lead to dependence.
How Long Does Zopiclone Take to Work?
Zopiclone usually starts to take effect within an hour after taking the tablet. To get the most benefit from the medication, it should be taken right before going to bed, ensuring you can sleep for 7-8 hours after taking it. Taking Zopiclone and not going to sleep immediately can lead to side effects, such as drowsiness the next day, so it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s advice on when to take it.
How Long Is Zopiclone Prescribed For?
Typically, Zopiclone is prescribed for 7-14 days to address short-term insomnia. This short duration is key in preventing tolerance (where your body becomes used to the medication) and dependence. If sleep problems continue beyond this period, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider for a reassessment of your treatment plan.
Does Your Body Get Used to Zopiclone?
Yes, your body can become accustomed to Zopiclone over time, which is known as tolerance. If you take Zopiclone for more than a couple of weeks, you may find that it becomes less effective, meaning you may need higher doses to achieve the same sleep-inducing effects. This is one of the reasons why Zopiclone is prescribed for short-term use only.
Can You Become Dependent on Zopiclone?
Yes, dependence on Zopiclone is possible, especially if it is taken for an extended period of time. Dependence occurs when your body becomes reliant on the medication to function normally. If you stop taking Zopiclone suddenly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms like insomnia, anxiety, or restlessness (Cimolai, 2007). According to Sikdar (1998), dependence can develop due to both the physical and psychological effects of the drug, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s guidance and not stop taking it abruptly.
What Are the Common Side Effects of Zopiclone?
Like all medications, Zopiclone can cause side effects (Wadworth & McTavish, 1993). Some of the common side effects include:
Bitter taste in the mouth
Dry mouth
Drowsiness
Dizziness
Headaches
Serious side effects, though rarer, can include:
Amnesia (memory loss)
Hallucinations
Delusions
Falling over, especially in individuals over the age of 65
Depressive feelings
If you experience any serious side effects or if the side effects worsen, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider immediately.
Can Zopiclone Interact with Alcohol?
Yes, Zopiclone should not be combined with alcohol. Alcohol can significantly enhance the sedative effects of Zopiclone, leading to extreme drowsiness, difficulty waking up, or even respiratory problems. In severe cases, mixing alcohol with Zopiclone can be fatal (Tanaka, 2003). For this reason, people with a history of alcohol or drug abuse are rarely prescribed Zopiclone (Chaplin et al, 2013). Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about alcohol and Zopiclone use.
Is It Safe to Take Zopiclone When Using Machinery or Driving?
No, you should avoid driving or using machinery after taking Zopiclone. Zopiclone causes drowsiness, and you may still feel sleepy the next morning, even after a full night’s sleep. This can impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery. Always ensure you know how Zopiclone affects you before engaging in such activities.
Is Zopiclone Safe for Children?
Zopiclone is generally not recommended for children or adolescents under 18, according to the EMC. The safety and effectiveness of Zopiclone for children haven’t been adequately studied. If sleep medication is necessary for children, a paediatrician or child psychiatrist will typically oversee treatment, opting for medications proven to be safe for younger patients.
Do You Need a Prescription for Zopiclone?
Yes, in the UK, Zopiclone is a prescription-only medication. It is regulated due to its potential for misuse and dependence. To obtain Zopiclone, you need to consult with a healthcare provider who can assess your condition and provide a prescription if appropriate. At PharmXtra, we offer a private prescription after successful completion of an online consultation with a registered independent prescriber, ensuring the medication is suitable for your needs.
Final Thoughts
Zopiclone is an effective short-term treatment for insomnia, but like all medications, it should be used with caution. Tolerance and dependence can develop if used for extended periods, so it's vital to follow your healthcare provider's guidance on dosage and duration of use. If you experience any unusual side effects or concerns, always consult with your doctor.
For those struggling with insomnia, Zopiclone can provide much-needed relief. However, it’s important to balance its use with awareness of potential risks. If you’re considering Zopiclone for your insomnia, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it is the right option for you.
Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Irfan Siddique MBBS
GMC reference no: 7694522
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