If you’ve struggled with sleepless nights, you’ve likely heard of zopiclone, a commonly prescribed medication for short-term insomnia relief. But is it right for you? In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about zopiclone—its uses, effectiveness, safety, side effects, dosage, comparisons with other sleep aids, and essential safety tips.
What Is Zopiclone?
Zopiclone is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic medication primarily used for the short-term treatment of insomnia in adults. It is marketed under brand names like Imovane and Zimovane. Zopiclone helps people fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and reduce night-time awakenings, promoting more restful sleep overall[1][2].
How Does Zopiclone Work?
Zopiclone acts on γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain, enhancing the calming effects of this neurotransmitter. This sedative effect helps you relax and brings on sleep, typically within about an hour of taking the medication[3][4].
When and How Is Zopiclone Prescribed?
- Indication: Zopiclone is usually prescribed for adults facing difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or who wake up too early[1][2].
- Short-Term Use: This sleep aid is recommended for short durations (2–4 weeks), as the body quickly adjusts, making it less effective and increasing the risk of dependence if used long-term[1][2][5].
- Dose: Standard adult dose is 7.5mg before bedtime. A lower dose (3.75mg) may be started, especially for older adults or those with kidney/liver issues. Always swallow tablets whole with water and do not crush or chew them. Take just before bed and only if you can dedicate 7–8 hours to sleep[5][6].
Effectiveness: Does Zopiclone Really Work?
- Zopiclone is effective at inducing sleep, shortening the time to fall asleep, and reducing the frequency of awakenings[2][3].
- It is equally effective as other commonly prescribed sleep medicines like zolpidem (Ambien) and benzodiazepines, but usually only for short-term relief[7].
- Unlike melatonin, zopiclone directly impacts sleep architecture but is not suitable for circadian rhythm problems like jet lag[8].
Comparing Zopiclone to Other Sleep Aids
| Sleep Aid | Effectiveness | Safety & Tolerability | Dependence Risk | Best For |
| Zopiclone | Rapid, reliable onset[7][3] | Bitter taste, drowsiness, caution long-term[3][5] | Moderate to High | Short-term insomnia |
| Zolpidem | Similar to zopiclone[7] | Fewer side effects | Moderate | Short-term insomnia |
| Melatonin | Mild, slow onset[8] | Very high safety, no dependence | None | Circadian disturbances |
| Benzodiazepines | Strong, rapid onset[9] | Memory issues, high dependence | High | Insomnia + Anxiety |
| CBT-I | As/more effective long-term[10] | Safest, no meds | None | All insomnia types |
Key Point: For long-term insomnia, non-pharmacological approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) are safest and most effective[10].
What Are the Side Effects of Zopiclone?
While most users tolerate zopiclone, side effects do occur:
- Common: Bitter/metallic taste, dry mouth, next-day drowsiness, headache, dizziness[1][3][5].
- Serious: Memory disturbance, sleepwalking, complex sleep behaviors (driving, eating, etc. without memory), allergic reactions. These require immediate medical attention[1].
- Dependence & Withdrawal: Risk increases with duration and dose. Stopping suddenly can cause rebound insomnia, anxiety, agitation, and, rarely, seizures[1][5].
- Cautions: Avoid alcohol and opioids while on zopiclone, as these can dramatically increase side effect severity and risk of overdose[1].
Who Should Avoid Zopiclone?
- People with a history of substance abuse or dependence
- Individuals with severe respiratory issues, sleep apnea, myasthenia gravis, or severe liver problems[11]
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals—consult your doctor first
How to Use Zopiclone Safely
Top Safety Tips:
- Take the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed[5][2].
- Never mix with alcohol or sedating drugs.
- Do not drive or operate machinery if drowsy the next day.
- Taper off gradually under medical supervision—never stop suddenly[1][5].
- Use no more than 2–4 nights a week to reduce dependence risk[2].
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I take zopiclone every night?
No. Regular nightly use increases habit formation and dependence. Most guidelines recommend intermittent use[2]. - Is zopiclone addictive?
Yes, especially if used for more than a few weeks or at higher doses. Always follow your doctor’s instructions strictly[1][5]. - What do I do if I miss a dose?
Skip the missed dose—never double up. Only take zopiclone if you can have a full night’s sleep afterwards[5][6].
Bottom Line: Should You Try Zopiclone?
Zopiclone can be a useful option for short-term insomnia—but it’s not a cure-all. Due to risks of dependence and side effects, it’s best reserved for brief periods when other options (like good sleep hygiene and CBT-I) have been tried without success. Always discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations regarding sleep medications.
References:
- https://www.drugs.com/zopiclone.html
- https://healthify.nz/medicines-a-z/z/zopiclone
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abgcKHo2Qnc
- https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB01198
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/zopiclone/how-and-when-to-take-zopiclone/
- https://www2.hse.ie/medicines/zopiclone/
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/147323000102900303
- https://www.drugs.com/compare/melatonin-vs-zopiclone
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3728643/
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/203083
- https://pdf.hres.ca/dpd_pm/00041252.PDF
Also Read: What Is Zopiclone 10mg and How Does It Work?
