Description

Zopiclone UK: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Safety and Patient Information

Zopiclone is a prescription-only medicine (POM) used for the short-term treatment of insomnia (sleep problems) in adults when difficulties sleeping are severe, disabling, or causing significant distress.

Zopiclone belongs to a group of medicines known as hypnotics or sleeping tablets. Although it is not a benzodiazepine, it works in a similar way by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a natural chemical messenger in the brain that helps calm nervous system activity.

By increasing GABA activity, zopiclone can help people fall asleep more quickly, stay asleep for longer, and improve overall sleep quality.

Because zopiclone may cause tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms, it is generally prescribed for the shortest appropriate duration and should only be taken exactly as directed by a healthcare professional.

What Is Zopiclone?

Zopiclone is a non-benzodiazepine sleeping medicine used to treat short-term insomnia.

It may be prescribed when someone experiences:

• Difficulty falling asleep
• Frequent waking during the night
• Poor-quality sleep
• Sleep problems affecting daytime wellbeing

Before prescribing zopiclone, healthcare professionals may consider possible causes of insomnia, including stress, anxiety, depression, medical conditions, lifestyle factors, and sleep habits.

How Does Zopiclone Work?

Zopiclone works by increasing the activity of GABA, the brain’s main inhibitory neurotransmitter.

This calming effect may help:

• Reduce excessive brain activity
• Promote relaxation
• Shorten the time needed to fall asleep
• Reduce night-time awakenings
• Improve sleep duration

Because zopiclone affects the central nervous system, it may cause drowsiness, slower reactions, and reduced alertness.

What Is Zopiclone Used For?

Short-Term Treatment of Insomnia

Zopiclone is mainly prescribed for short-term insomnia when sleep problems are severe and significantly affect daily life.

It may help adults who have difficulty:

• Falling asleep
• Staying asleep
• Waking repeatedly during the night
• Feeling rested after sleep

Long-term use is generally avoided because the body can become accustomed to the medicine, reducing its effectiveness and increasing the risk of dependence.

Zopiclone Strengths Available in the UK

Zopiclone tablets are commonly available in:

• Zopiclone 3.75mg
• Zopiclone 7.5mg

The prescribed dose depends on:

• Age
• Overall health
• Liver or kidney function
• Other medicines being taken
• Response to treatment

Older adults may be prescribed a lower dose due to increased sensitivity to sedative effects.

Never change your dose without speaking to your healthcare professional.

How to Take Zopiclone Safely

Always take zopiclone exactly as prescribed.

General safety advice includes:

• Take zopiclone shortly before going to bed.
• Only take it when you can have a full night’s sleep (usually 7–8 hours).
• Swallow the tablet with water.
• Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
• Do not take another dose during the same night.
• Avoid alcohol while taking zopiclone.
• Do not stop regular treatment suddenly without medical advice.

Possible Side Effects of Zopiclone

Like all medicines, zopiclone can cause side effects.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Bitter or metallic taste
• Dry mouth
• Sleepiness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Reduced concentration
• Memory problems
• Feeling unsteady

Some side effects may continue into the following day.

Sleep-Related Behaviours

Rarely, people taking zopiclone may experience unusual activities while not fully awake.

These may include:

• Sleepwalking
• Eating while asleep
• Carrying out activities with limited awareness

If these effects occur, seek medical advice as treatment may need to be reviewed.

Serious Side Effects

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing
• Severe allergic reactions
• Severe confusion
• Hallucinations
• Significant changes in mood or behaviour
• Thoughts of self-harm

Who Should Not Take Zopiclone?

Zopiclone may not be suitable for everyone.

Tell your healthcare professional if you have:

• Severe breathing problems
• Sleep apnoea
• Liver disease
• Kidney problems
• Myasthenia gravis
• A history of alcohol or medicine dependence
• Mental health conditions
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding considerations

Your prescriber will decide whether zopiclone is appropriate for you.

Can Zopiclone Cause Dependence?

Yes. Although zopiclone is not a benzodiazepine, it can still cause:

• Tolerance
• Physical dependence
• Withdrawal symptoms
• Reduced effectiveness over time

To reduce risks:

• Use the lowest effective dose.
• Keep treatment as short as possible.
• Do not increase your dose without medical advice.
• Discuss stopping treatment with your healthcare professional.

If zopiclone has been taken regularly, your doctor may recommend gradually reducing the dose.

Zopiclone Drug Interactions

Zopiclone can interact with medicines and substances that affect the central nervous system.

Tell your healthcare professional if you take:

• Opioid pain medicines
• Benzodiazepines
• Other sleeping medicines
• Antidepressants
• Antipsychotics
• Sedating antihistamines
• Alcohol

Combining zopiclone with alcohol or other sedatives may increase the risk of excessive drowsiness, breathing problems, falls, and impaired judgement.

Driving and Operating Machinery

Zopiclone can affect alertness, coordination, and reaction times.

Do not drive or operate machinery if you:

• Feel sleepy the next day
• Feel dizzy or unsteady
• Have difficulty concentrating

Avoid driving until you know how zopiclone affects you.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding, speak with your healthcare professional before taking zopiclone.

Your doctor will assess the potential benefits and risks before recommending treatment.

Missed Dose

Zopiclone is usually taken at bedtime.

If you forget to take a dose:

• Do not take it later if you cannot have a full night’s sleep.
• Do not take an extra dose the next night.
• Continue according to your prescribed instructions.

Storage Information

Store zopiclone:

• In its original packaging
• Away from heat and moisture
• Out of the sight and reach of children
• According to the storage instructions provided

Do not use after the expiry date.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is zopiclone used for?

Zopiclone is prescribed for the short-term treatment of severe insomnia in adults when sleep problems significantly affect daily functioning.

Is zopiclone a sleeping tablet?

Yes. Zopiclone is a prescription sleeping medicine used to help people fall asleep and stay asleep for short periods.

Is zopiclone a benzodiazepine?

No. Zopiclone is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic, although it works on similar brain pathways involving GABA.

Can zopiclone cause dependence?

Yes. Zopiclone may cause dependence, especially when used for longer periods or at higher doses.

Can I drink alcohol while taking zopiclone?

Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of zopiclone and may increase the risk of serious side effects. Avoid alcohol unless advised otherwise by your healthcare professional.

Can I stop taking zopiclone suddenly?

If you have taken zopiclone regularly, speak with your healthcare professional before stopping. Gradual dose reduction may be recommended.

Is zopiclone available without a prescription in the UK?

No. Zopiclone is a Prescription Only Medicine (POM) in the UK and should only be supplied following assessment by an appropriately qualified prescriber.

Patient Advice

Take zopiclone exactly as prescribed and only for the duration recommended by your healthcare professional. Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any side effects, changes in your health, or new medicines you begin taking.

If insomnia continues despite treatment, speak with your healthcare professional, as persistent sleep problems may require further investigation and alternative management approaches.