Introduction
Zopiclone, available under the brand name Imovane, is a nonbenzodiazepine or Z-class medication used to treat insomnia in patients. Nonbenzodiazepines are new-generation hypnotics that exhibit similar mechanisms of action and pharmacodynamics but with a different molecular structure and shorter half-life, because of which they have a safer profile. It is used in the short-term treatment of insomnia to improve sleep quality. Off-label, it is used in SWSD workers in initiating daytime sleep and as a part of cognitive behaviour therapy for treating psychiatric issues.
Zopiclone mechanism of action
To exert its therapeutic properties, Zopiclone binds to the benzodiazepine receptor complex in the CNS and modulates the GABA Z receptors chloride channel macromolecular complex. The effect of the medication on the GABA-containing receptors increases the inhibitory effects of GABA and subsequent sedation and relaxation of the individual. The action of Zopiclone on the alpha1 and alpha2 receptors brings out its anxiolytic effects, and the alpha three and alpha four receptors bring out its sedative effects.
Onset
Zopiclone has an onset period of 30 minutes and attains peak plasma concentrations in the blood within 1-2 hours. The elimination half-life of the medication ranges from 4.5-6 hours, and the effects of the drug last for 6-10 hours. After completion of its half-lives, the drug is eliminated from the body through metabolic wastes. It takes around 12 hours for Zopiclone to be completely out of your system, with increased chances of grogginess the morning after ingestion. Factors like age and ingestion of heavy meals can affect the absorption of the medication and delay its onset period and subsequent lasting effects.Â
Strengths and Doses
Zopiclone is available in strengths of 3.75mg and 7.5mg, of which 7.5mg is the most commonly used dose. Zopiclone dosage depends on the patient’s age, the severity of the condition, and the presence of systemic conditions within the system. In most cases, a dose of 7.5mg is advised to be used once daily, an hour before bedtime. In elderly patients or people with hepatic abnormalities, the dose is further regulated to 3.5mg; irrespective of the strength used, Zopiclone is a short-term medication, and its use should not be extended beyond two or three weeks for safety reasons.
Drug interactions
How to use?
To use Zopiclone correctly.
- Use the medication strictly as per the advice of the physician.
- Try to use the medication once every 2-3 days instead of using it on a nightly basis.
- Swallow the medication whole with water instead of breaking or chewing it.
- It may make you groggy the next day. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while using it.
- Do Not overdose on the drug to make up for a missed dose.
Zopiclone is contraindicated in the following population.
- In pregnant and breastfeeding ladies.
- In patients with myasthenia gravis.
- Respiratory failure conditions.
- In allergic and hypersensitivity reactions to the use of the medication.
FAQs
How can you buy Zopiclone in the UK?
Zopiclone is a controlled medication placed in Schedule 4 part 1 Class in the UK; Schedule 4 substances are labelled ‘Prescription Only Medicine’ and are obtained from a pharmacist on prescription. Some S4 medicines are even subject to special requirements regarding their supply. You can get the drug from registered pharmacies licensed to dispense the different strengths of Zopiclone or procure it from selected physician’s clinics with a counter for dispensing the medication. You can even order it online from registered online portals that will deliver the drug to your doorstep quickly and easily.
What is Zopiclone used for?
Zopiclone is a potent sedative that helps reduce the time it takes you to fall asleep, increases the amount of time you sleep, and decreases the number of times you wake up at night. It even helps treat severe or upsetting sleep problems caused by mood changes or other mental health problems. In addition to sedative properties, Zopiclone is used off-label to treat patients’ anxiolytic disorders. It is a short-term medication and comes with the risk of tolerance and addiction, because of which it should be used with caution.
How does Zopiclone work for anxiety?
Reviews about Zopiclone for anxiety and clinical studies have proved that the drug has the potential to work for anxiety and relax the patient to a considerable extent. The effect of the medication on the GABA receptors that play a significant role in controlling anxiety, stress and fear enables the drug to bring out its anxiolytic properties to a moderate extent. But the side effects associated with the strength of Zopiclone for anxiety are more intense than the therapeutic effects and, when used in chronic doses, lead to various health problems and withdrawal symptoms.
How many Zopiclone can you take a night?
You should not take more than one 7.5mg tablet of Zopiclone in one night. Unregulated use of the medication, especially in the form of overdosing, can lead to symptoms of extreme drowsiness, lethargy, loss of muscle control, Paleness, blurred vision, and excessive sweating in the patient. Additionally, breathing problems, loss of consciousness and even death can occur on overdosing on Zopiclone.
What are the side effects of taking Zopiclone?
Mild side effects -: metallic taste in mouth, nausea, gastrointestinal upset
Moderate side effects -: excessive daytime drowsiness, diarrhoea, rashes, abdominal pain
Severe side effects -: drug dependence, convulsions, seizures, loss of consciousness, anaphylactic reactions
Users should stop using the medication and seek urgent medical help when observing the intensifying of Zopiclone side effects.
Is Zopiclone sleeping pills in the UK available under the NHS?
Zopiclone is a prescription medication not available under the NHS in the UK. You require a prescription to diagnose your condition and advise the use of the drug to procure it from pharmacies or physician’s clinics. You can even order it online, but care should be taken to opt for an authentic site with a genuine customer care id that will dispense you authentic medication in addition to being answerable about your queries about delivery and ordering of the medicine.
What are the signs of Zopiclone Withdrawal?
Insomnia, a feeling of being edgy, and an intense craving 6-8 hours after the last dose are some of the chief signs of Zopiclone Withdrawal. Other symptoms of drug withdrawal include body spasms, seizures, insomnia, delirium, anxiety, drug cravings, irritability, depression, confusion, and hallucinations. The withdrawal symptoms last for 5-14 days, gradually decreasing intensity before weaning off altogether.
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