Zopiclone

Filed under: Sleeping Tablets

Displayed: Zopiclone Zimovane 7.5mg

Zopiclone is a sleeping drug known also as a hypnotic and is used to treat insomnia over a short period of time. The sleep pattern could include early morning awakenings, unable to get to sleep or maybe you wake up from sleep frequently. This drug would normally be given after all else has failed. eg. avoidance of caffeine drinks immediately before bedtime, cutting down on your caffeine intake etc. Zopiclone unlike benzodiazepines does not contain any anti-anxiety properties. This makes it ideal for insomnia where the problem is not related to anxiety. An example would be shift-work where the body needs to adapt to various sleep patterns. Zopiclone/hypnotics are intended for occassional use only. It is possible to become dependent on this medication in as little time as one week of constant use.

Detailed Information

Quick Guide

• Hypnotic sleeping drug with danger of overdose – MEDIUM
• Dependency is said to be – MEDIUM
• Prescription only drug – YES
• Available as generic – YES
• Alcohol Avoidance – YES
• Alcohol increases the sedative effect of zopiclone

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted adverse effects.

Common: Daytime Drowsiness, Drowsiness, Headaches
Rare: Confusion, Diarrhoea, Dizziness, Nausea, Rash, Vomiting, Weakness

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using this medication It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

This type of medication is intended for short term use only. Continuous use of Zopiclone, or any other hypnotic/sleeping drug could result in dependency in as little as one week. It is most important to listen to your doctor and be guided by his/her advice.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

You should avoid such activities until you become aware of how zopicline affects you. It is possible for this drug to cause drowsiness, reduced alertness and slow reaction time.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

If you are pregnant, breast feeding or trying for a baby. Zopiclone is not recommended for use during this time.

Zopiclone is classified as a pregnancy Category C medicine by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Category C… Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Tell Your Doctor

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

Over 60’s & Children

Because of increased likelihood of adverse effects the over sixties may require a reduced dose. Zopiclone is not recommended for infants or children.

Overdose

If a large overdose has been taken it can result in prolonged sleep, drowsiness, lethargy, poor muscle coordination and reflexes. You should notify your doctor without delay. However if an extra unintentional dose has been taken it is unlikely to warrant concern.

Other Medication Reactions

All drug that have a sedative effect on the nervous system are more than likely to increase the sedative effect of zopiclone. Drugs like anti-anxiety and sleeping drugs, antihistamines, antidepressants, opioid, analgesics and antipsychotics. This advice is also relevant to alcohol. If this medicine has been prescribed for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Missed A Dose

If you fall asleep forgetting to take your tablet do not take it if you awaken some time later. Take it the next night as usual Ideally you would have already checked with your doctor. Failing this ring the surgery or check next time you see your doctor.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

If you have been taken this drug on a continual base for less than a week, it can be stopped safely as soon as you no longer need it. However, if you have been taking zopiclone for longer than the mentioned period you should visit your doctor and be guided by his/her advise.

Effect Of Medication

The effects of this drug may be felt within 30 minutes. The drug has a lasting effect of 4 to 6 hours.

Storage and Safety

Keep medicine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach of children. Never take medication that has past the expiry date shown on the box or container. Return all un-used or old medicines to your pharmacist. Do not discard old or unwanted medication into your trash, sink or toilet.

If this medication has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or they feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.