Zopiclone
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.
