Zopiclone

Anxiolytic and Hypnotic Drugs

Drug class: Hypnotic

Zopiclone (IMOVANE)（中文：佐匹克隆）

Pronunciation

Zopiclone 7.5mg

Common Strengths of Zopiclone

Zopiclone are available in the following strengths:

• Tablets: 7.5 mg
• Oral Solution: 5 mg/5 mL

Drug Trade Names of Zopiclone

Imovane

Drug Usage

Zopiclone is used for the short-term treatment of insomnia.

Mechanism of Action

Zopiclone binds to the benzodiazepine site on GABA-A receptors, enhancing the effects of GABA to produce sedative and anxiolytic effects.

Route of Administration

Oral

Dosages

• 7.5 mg orally once daily at bedtime.
• Elderly or Debilitated Patients: Start with 3.75 mg orally once daily at bedtime.

Side Effects

Frequency	Adverse reactions
Common Side Effects	Drowsiness which may persist till the next day
	Dizziness and headache
	Bitter or metallic taste in the mouth, dry mouth
These common side effects occur in more than 1 in 100 people taking zopiclone. They are generally mild and may improve as your body adjust to the medication.
Serious Side Effects	Severe allergic reaction with symptoms like swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, rash, hives
	Amnesia or memory loss
	Hallucinations or delusions
	Paradoxical effects such as in increase in hostility and aggression
	Feeling depressed or suicidal
	Falling, especially in the elderly
	Severe confusion
	Severe drowsiness or difficulty waking up
	Slow or shallow breathing
	Complex sleep-related behaviours such as sleep-walking, sleep driving

Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: Zopiclone is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak concentrations reached within 1.5-2 hours
• Metabolism: Zopiclone is primarily metabolized in the liver.
• Elimination: The elimination half-life ranges from 3.5 to 6.5 hours.
• The onset of action for zopiclone is generally rapid, with effects typically beginning within 30 minutes after administration. The duration lasts about 6 to 8 hours, making it suitable for treating insomnia.

Drug Precautions

Pregnancy

Potential risk to the fetus.

Breastfeeding

Caution is advised as zopiclone is excreted in breast milk.

Contraindication

Patients with marked neuromuscular respiratory weakness including unstable myasthenia gravis, respiratory failure, and severe sleep apnoea.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Rebound insomnia may occur on drug withdrawal

Children and Elderly

Not recommended for use in children. The elderly may require lower doses due to increased sensitivity.

Monitoring Requirements

Monitor for signs of dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and respiratory function.

Drug Interactions

Avoiding alcohol and other CNS depressants (such as opioids, benzodiazepines, fluoxetine, and sertraline) significantly increase the risk of sedation, respiratory depression, and impairment of psychomotor performance.

FAQ

How Should I Take the Tablet?

Take zopiclone at night, just before bed. Swqllow the tablet whole without crushing or chewing.

What Should I Avoid While Taking?

Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants. Be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how zopiclone affect you.

What Happens if I Miss a Dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is close to the next dose. Do not double up.

In summary, zopiclone is an effective nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic used for the short-term treatment of insomnia. It is important to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible and to monitor for side effects and interactions, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with renal impairment. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and adjustments to treatment.