How to Take Zopiclone

Sleep deprivation on a daily basis often leads to the development of insomnia – a sleep disorder that affects millions globally. Insomnia is not only limited to loss of sleep but it has been linked with several health issues. Studies and research have established a strong link between insomnia and its effects on the physical, mental, emotional and sexual well-being of the sufferer. 

Insomnia is a manageable condition with the right treatment. When lifestyle changes and natural remedies fail, Zopiclone can be considered. This medicine is used as a short-term treatment for insomnia. It is one of the most prescribed medicines for insomnia. However, its safety and effectiveness depend on how accurately it has been administered. 

This step-by-step Zopiclone guide explains how to take this medicine properly. It also elaborates medical guidelines and clinical insights. Let’s explore! 

Understanding Zopiclone

Zopiclone belongs to the class of medicines called cyclopyrrolones. It acts on the brain especially on the GABA neurotransmitter. It enhances the activity of the neurotransmitter that reduces brain activity and boosts relaxation. Studies have revealed that this medicine must be used for the time span of 2 to 4 weeks for the eradication of insomnia. Long-term usage is not encouraged due to the risk of dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. 

Here is the step-by-step guide for using Zopiclone to get safer results:

Step 1: Consult a Healthcare Professional

Before you buy Zopiclone UK, it is important to consult a doctor. Self-medication practices often lead to serious consequences. 

Before prescribing you the medicine, your doctor will:

• Evaluate your sleep history and patterns.

• Rule out underlying causes like anxiety, depression, or sleep apnea.
• Conclude whether Zopiclone is apt for you.

This sleep-inducing medicine is recommended for people with: 

• Severe liver or kidney disease
• Sleep apnea
• Respiratory depression
• A history of substance misuse or dependence

Pregnant and breastfeeding women can only use this medicine when other alternatives have failed to provide relief, and the treatment is strictly supervised by healthcare providers. 

Step 2: Know the Correct Dosage

Dosages are sensitive to the age, medical history and response to the treatment. The usual dosage for adults is 7.5 mg once daily, given right before bedtime. 

Elderly patients (65 years and above) or those with kidney and/or liver issues are advised to start the treatment with 3.75 mg dosage. A doctor might gradually increase the dosage if the lowest dose does not work. 

Image Source: https://zopiclone.com/withdrawal/ 

Studies published in The British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology emphasize that higher dosage of the medicines does not enhance the sleep quality. However, it puts you at higher risk of developing side effects such as confusion, anxiety and drowsiness especially in elderly patients. 

Never take more than the prescribed amount of Zopiclone dosages. If the prescribed dosage doesn’t give you desired results, you need to consult a doctor to get your dosages changed. Never self-medicate! 

Step 3: Timing Matters — When and How to Take It

Zopiclone works best when it is taken right before hitting the bed. This medicine offers 7 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep to the user. Taking the drug in the early evening may cause sleepiness and impaired alertness. 

How to take it:

• You need to swallow the whole tablet with a glass of water. 
• It is advised to take the medicine on an empty stomach or after a light meal. 
• Do not take Zopiclone with alcohol as both depress the CNS causing severe side effects including severe sleepiness, respiratory depression, and even coma. 

A 2019 clinical review in Sleep Medicine Reviews concluded that using alcohol with Zopiclone considerably increases risks of coordination thus causing accidents. 

Step 4: Follow the Prescribed Duration

Zopiclone depresses the central nervous system, and this is one of the reasons why it is prescribed for a short-term treatment. Most medical guidelines including those from the NHS and Mayo clinic encourage the duration of 2 to 4 weeks. 

Why short-term?

This medicine is prescribed as a short-term treatment alternative because:

• Using it in the long term causes tolerance (reduced effect)
• Increases the risk of dependence 
• Puts you at the risk of developing withdrawal symptoms 
• It may mask underlying health conditions causing insomnia 

If you find yourself struggling to sleep after a few weeks post starting the treatment; you need to consult your doctor regarding increasing your dosage. Long-term insomnia may require treatments such as lifestyle modification, behavioral therapy instead of Zopiclone. 

Step 5: Avoid Drug Interactions and Contraindications

Zopiclone interacts with several other medications. Inform your doctor if you are taking:

• Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs, tricyclics)
• Antihistamines
• Antipsychotics
• Opioid painkillers
• Other sleep medications or anti-anxiety drugs

These medicines increase the sedation effect of Zopiclone. 

Grapefruit juice interferes with the liver enzymes active in the metabolism of the sleep medicines, increasing its concentration in the blood. 

Driving and machinery

Zopiclone can cause residual drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision the next morning. Studies show that even a 7.5 mg dose may impair reaction time and coordination for up to 11 hours after intake. Avoid driving, cycling, or operating heavy machinery during this time.

Step 6: Recognize Side Effects

Like all medicines, this sleep-inducing drug also tends to cause a few side effects. Some of them are mild and some, although rare, are severe. 

Common Side Effects (≥1 in 10 users):

• Bitter or metallic taste
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness or dizziness
• Headache

Less Common but Serious Side Effects:

• Confusion or hallucinations
• Memory loss
• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty)
• Sleepwalking or engaging in activities while not fully awake

As per the data from the European Medicines Agency (EMA), complex sleep behaviors are rare especially when the medicine is consumed along with alcohol or other sedatives or sleep-inducing drugs. 

If you experience severe or unusual side symptoms, connect with your doctor immediately. 

Step 7: How to Stop Taking Zopiclone Safely

Image Source: https://tinyurl.com/2z4athun 

This medicine should not be stopped abruptly. Discontinuing the medicine suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms such as: 

• Anxiety and restlessness
• Tremors or sweating
• Rebound insomnia
• Irritability or mood swings

To prevent the onset of withdrawal symptoms, a gradual tapering of Zopiclone is required. 

Research published in Addiction Biology (2020) stated that slow taper with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) enhances the chance of successfully discontinuing Zopiclone without causing withdrawal symptoms. 

Step 8: Complement Zopiclone with Healthy Sleep Habits

Image source: https://tinyurl.com/6r5bzfzt 

Though Zopiclone is an effective remedy for insomnia, it does not fix the problem entirely. To get and maintain long-term results: 

• Stick to a consistent sleep schedule.
• Avoid screens, caffeine, and heavy meals before bed.
• Create a dark, quiet, and cool sleeping environment.
• Try relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing.

Studies from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine have estimated that behavioral changes along with short-term medicines tend to offer better outcomes than the medicine alone. 

Step 9: Know When to Seek Medical Help

• Call your doctor if:
• Sleep loss persist after 2–4 weeks.
• You experience confusion the next day.
• You find it difficult to reduce the dose.

Medical professionals can advise alternatives such as eszopiclone, melatonin-based therapies, or non-drug interventions suitable to your condition.

Takeaway message 

Zopiclone is a safer and better short-term treatment option for insomnia as long as you are using it correctly under medical supervision. The key to get safer results is to use the medicine responsibly, and following medical instructions. Ignoring the guidelines leads to increased risk of side effects and withdrawal symptoms if the medicine is discontinued abruptly. 

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