Zopiclone
Zopiclone Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Zopiclone is a brand name. Its generic name is Zopiclone.
Introduction
Zopiclone is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic agent used to treat insomnia. It is chemically related to benzodiazepines but has distinct pharmacological properties. Zopiclone has anxiolytic, hypnotic, muscle relaxant, anticonvulsant, and amnestic properties.
Uses of Zopiclone
Zopiclone is used to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. It works by helping you to relax, fall asleep and stay asleep.
Mechanism of Action
Zopiclone works by experts to modulate y-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the central nervous system (CNS). GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, which controls nerve impulses that cause anxiety and insomnia.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
Zopiclone typically takes 30–60 minutes to start working. The peak effect of the drug is usually seen after an hour of taking the drug.
Absorption
Zopiclone is quickly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
Route Of Elimination
Zopiclone is metabolized mainly by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) in the liver, and metabolites are excreted in urine and feces.
Dosage
Zopiclone is available in 5mg and 7.5mg tablets. The recommended adult dose is 7.5mg taken once a day, one hour before bed.
Administration
Zopiclone should be taken orally with a glass of water. It should be taken immediately before going to bed and should not be taken with or after a meal.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of zopiclone include depression, headache, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, constipation, fatigue, and dizziness. Other less common side effects include confusion, difficulty concentrating, agitation, confusion, difficulty sleeping, nightmares, blurred vision, and loss of coordination.
Toxicity
The most common signs and symptoms of an overdose of zopiclone are drowsiness, confusion, and coma. Other signs and symptoms include hypotension, bradycardia, and respiratory depression. In cases of severe overdose, death may occur.
Precautions
Before taking zopiclone, patients should tell their doctor if they have a history of hypersensitivity to zopiclone or any of its components, or to other non-benzodiazepines. Patients should not take alcohol while taking zopiclone, as this may increase the effects of the medication.
Interactions
Zopiclone may interact with other medications, such as cimetidine, antacids, anticonvulsants, anti-seizure medications, felbamate, lithium, benzodiazepines, or other sedatives. These drugs may increase the effects of zopiclone.
Disease Interactions
Patients with certain medical conditions may be at risk of experiencing adverse effects from zopiclone, such as kidney or liver disease, respiratory depression, or myasthenia gravis.
Drug Interactions
Zopiclone may interact with other medications, including muscle relaxants, anti-arrhythmics, anti-depressants, and anti-psychotics. Patients taking these drugs should inform their doctor before taking zopiclone.
Food Interactions
There are no known food interactions with zopiclone. However, patients should always tell their doctors if they are taking any supplements or vitamins.
Pregnancy Use
Zopiclone is not recommended for use in pregnant women or women planning to become pregnant. Animal studies on zopiclone have shown that it can be toxic to developing fetuses.
Lactation Use
Zopiclone is not recommended for use in women who are breastfeeding. The drug is excreted in breast milk and may have harmful effects on the infant.
Acute Overdose
An acute overdose of zopiclone can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Signs and symptoms of overdose may include altered consciousness, respiratory depression, and coma.
Contraindication
Zopiclone is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to zopiclone, any of its components, or to other non-benzodiazepines. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment or acute depressive states.
Use Direction
The recommended adult dose of zopiclone is 7.5 mg taken once a day, one hour before bed time. The dosage may be adjusted based on the patient’s reaction and response. Patients should not take zopiclone for more than 4 weeks unless instructed by a doctor.
Storage Condition
Zopiclone tablets should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. The tablets should be kept out of the reach of children and pets.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of Zopiclone is approximately 6 L/kg.
Half Life
The elimination half-life of zopiclone is approximately 4-5 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of zopiclone is approximately 40 mL/min/kg.
Here you find in details version of Zopiclone
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Zopiclone
.What is Zopiclone?
Zopiclone is a prescription medicine used to treat people who have difficulty sleeping (insomnia). It belongs to a family of drugs known as sedative-hypnotics and works by blocking the action of a brain chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which helps to produce a calming effect and decrease activity in the brain.
How does Zopiclone work?
Zopiclone works by blocking the action of a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter, which helps to produce a calming effect and decrease activity in the brain. It produces a mild but noticeable sedation and helps people with difficulty falling asleep.
Does Zopiclone interact with other medications?
Yes, Zopiclone can interact with some other medications, including other central nervous system depressants, such as narcotics, sedatives, and certain antidepressant medications. It is important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking Zopiclone if you are taking any of these medications.
What are the possible side effects of Zopiclone?
The most common side effects of Zopiclone include daytime drowsiness, headache, dizziness, and dry mouth. If you experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor as soon as possible. Rare but serious side effects can include difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis.
What are the safety precautions when taking Zopiclone?
Zopiclone should not be taken with alcohol or any other sedative medications as this can be dangerous. It should also not be taken if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you have liver or kidney disease, it is important to let your doctor know before taking Zopiclone.
How long does Zopiclone stay in the body?
It takes approximately 6-8 hours for Zopiclone to be completely eliminated from the body. If taken at a higher dose or for a longer duration, Zopiclone can stay in the body for a longer period of time, up to 12 hours.
What is the recommended dose of Zopiclone?
The recommended dose of Zopiclone is 7.5 mg in a single dose, taken just before bedtime when needed. It is important not to take higher doses than what is recommended and to follow your doctor’s instructions.
Is Zopiclone addictive?
Zopiclone is in a class of drugs known as sedative-hypnotics and, like other sedative-hypnotic medications, it carries a risk of dependence and potential abuse. As such, it is important to use Zopiclone according to your doctor’s instructions and to never take higher doses than what is recommended.
Is Zopiclone safe for long-term use?
Long-term use of Zopiclone may lead to dependency and potential abuse, so it is important to use it according to your doctor's instructions and not take higher doses than what is recommended. It is also important to contact your doctor before taking Zopiclone for more than 4 weeks.
Can Zopiclone be taken with food?
Yes, Zopiclone can be taken with food if needed. However, it is important to note that taking Zopiclone with food can reduce the absorption of the drug, which may make it less effective.
How should Zopiclone be stored?
Zopiclone should be stored at room temperature, away from direct light, heat, and moisture. Keep this medication and all other medications out of the reach of children and pets.
What are the withdrawal symptoms of Zopiclone?
The most common withdrawal symptoms associated with Zopiclone include irritability, anxiety, insomnia, dizziness, nausea, and muscle aches. If you find yourself feeling these symptoms, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Will I become dependent on Zopiclone?
It is possible to become dependent on Zopiclone, as it is a sedative-hypnotic drug. As such, it is important to use Zopiclone according to your doctor’s instructions and to never take higher doses than what is recommended.
Can I take Zopiclone while pregnant?
No, Zopiclone should not be taken while pregnant, as it may cause harm to the fetus. It is important to speak to your doctor before taking any medication while pregnant.
Can I take Zopiclone while breastfeeding?
No, Zopiclone should not be taken while breastfeeding as it may pass into breast milk and cause harm to the baby. It is important to speak to your doctor before taking any medication while breastfeeding.
Is there a generic version of Zopiclone?
Yes, generic versions of Zopiclone are available. These generic versions may have different names, but they contain the same active ingredient, zopiclone, as the brand-name version.
Can Zopiclone be used to treat anxiety?
No, Zopiclone is not indicated to treat anxiety and should not be used as such. It is important to speak to your doctor if you think you may be experiencing anxiety, as there are other medications that can be used to treat this condition.
What is the shelf life of Zopiclone?
The shelf life of Zopiclone is typically up to 2 years. However, you should always check the expiration date on the package to make sure the medication is still safe to take.
Can Zopiclone cause fatigue?
Yes, Zopiclone can cause fatigue as a side effect. If you experience fatigue while taking Zopiclone, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Can I take other medications with Zopiclone?
Yes, you can take other medications with Zopiclone. However, it is important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking Zopiclone if you are taking any other sedative medications, such as narcotics, sedatives, or certain antidepressant medications.
Can I take Zopiclone if I have high blood pressure?
Yes, but it is important to speak to your doctor first to make sure that Zopiclone is safe for you to take. Some people with high blood pressure may be more sensitive to the effects of Zopiclone.
Can Zopiclone cause nightmares?
Yes, Zopiclone can cause nightmares as a possible side effect. If you experience nightmares while taking Zopiclone, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Can Zopiclone cause weight gain?
Yes, Zopiclone can cause weight gain as a side effect. If you experience weight gain while taking Zopiclone, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Can I take Zopiclone if I have liver disease?
Yes, but it is important to speak to your doctor to make sure that Zopiclone is safe for you to take. Some people with liver disease may be more sensitive to the effects of Zopiclone.
Can I take Zopiclone if I have kidney disease?
Yes, but it is important to speak to your doctor to make sure that Zopiclone is safe for you to take. Some people with kidney disease may be more sensitive to the effects of Zopiclone.
How should I take Zopiclone?
It is important to take Zopiclone as prescribed by your doctor. For most people, the recommended dose is 7.5 mg in a single dose, taken just before bed when needed. It is important to never take higher doses than what is recommended and to always follow your doctor's instructions.
Is Zopiclone effective for treating insomnia?
Yes, Zopiclone has been found to be effective in treating insomnia. It produces a mild but noticeable sedation and helps people fall asleep.
Can Zopiclone cause dizziness?
Yes, Zopiclone can cause dizziness as a side effect. If you experience dizziness while taking Zopiclone, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Can Zopiclone cause blurred vision?
Yes, Zopiclone can cause blurred vision as a side effect. If you experience blurred vision while taking Zopiclone, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Can I take Zopiclone with alcohol?
No, it is not advisable to take Zopiclone with alcohol. This can be dangerous and can increase the risk of side effects, such as dizziness and drowsiness.
What is the difference between Zopiclone and other sleep medications?
The main difference between Zopiclone and other sleep medications is that Zopiclone is a sedative-hypnotic medication, which is intended to produce a calming effect and decrease activity in the brain. Other sleep medications, such as benzodiazepines, can be used to treat insomnia but have a higher risk of addiction and potential abuse.
Can Zopiclone affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?
Yes, Zopiclone can cause drowsiness and can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is important not to drive or operate machinery if you feel drowsy after taking Zopiclone.
Can Zopiclone reduce my anxiety?
No, Zopiclone is not indicated to reduce anxiety and should not be used as such. It is important to speak to your doctor if you think you may be experiencing anxiety, as there are other medications that can be used to treat this condition.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Zopiclone?
If you miss a dose of Zopiclone, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible. Do not try to make up for the missed dose by taking a double dose, as this can be dangerous.
Can I take Zopiclone with other medications?
Yes, you can take other medications with Zopiclone. However, it is important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking Zopiclone if you are taking any other sedative medications, such as narcotics, sedatives, or certain antidepressant medications.
Can Zopiclone cause constipation?
Yes, Zopiclone can cause constipation as a side effect. If you experience constipation while taking Zopiclone, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.
What is the recommended duration of Zopiclone treatment?
The recommended duration of treatment with Zopiclone is usually up to 4 weeks. However, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking Zopiclone for more than 4 weeks.
Can Zopiclone affect my memory?
Yes, Zopiclone can affect your memory as a side effect. If you experience memory problems while taking Zopiclone, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.