Zopiclone is a prescription-only sleeping medicine used in the UK for the short-term treatment of insomnia when sleep problems are severe or particularly troublesome. It belongs to a group of medicines commonly known as Z-drugs and is designed to help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and support sleep during the night.
Although zopiclone can be useful for some people with severe insomnia, it is not normally intended as a long-term solution. Treatment is generally kept as short as possible because tolerance and dependence can develop.
This practical guide explains how zopiclone is used, important safety considerations, possible side-effects, interactions, driving advice and other questions UK patients may have.
Important: Zopiclone is a prescription medicine. Take it only when prescribed for you and follow your doctor’s or pharmacist’s instructions. This article provides general information and does not replace personalised medical advice.
What Is Zopiclone?
Zopiclone is a hypnotic medicine used to treat insomnia.
Insomnia can involve different problems, including:
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Waking repeatedly during the night
- Staying awake for long periods
- Waking earlier than intended
- Feeling that sleep is not restorative
Zopiclone works by enhancing the effects of a naturally occurring calming chemical in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This reduces activity in parts of the brain involved in wakefulness and can produce a calming, sleep-inducing effect.
The medicine usually begins to work relatively quickly, which is why it is generally taken shortly before bedtime as directed by the prescriber.
What Is Zopiclone Used For?
In the UK, zopiclone is used primarily for short-term insomnia.
It may be considered when sleep difficulties are severe enough to have a significant impact on daily life and when a healthcare professional believes that a sleeping medicine is appropriate.
Zopiclone may help:
- Reduce the time needed to fall asleep
- Reduce periods of wakefulness during the night
- Increase overall sleep duration
- Support better sleep continuity in the short term
However, medication is only one part of managing insomnia. Addressing possible causes of poor sleep and developing healthier sleep habits can also be important.
Why Is Zopiclone Usually Used Short-Term?
One of the most important things to understand about zopiclone is that it is generally intended for short-term treatment.
The body can become accustomed to the effects of zopiclone. This is known as tolerance. With continued use, the medicine may become less effective.
There is also a risk of physical or psychological dependence, particularly with prolonged use or use outside the prescribed instructions.
For these reasons, treatment is normally kept to the shortest period considered appropriate by the prescriber.
A commonly referenced treatment period is two to four weeks, although the appropriate duration depends on the individual patient and their clinical circumstances.
Do not extend treatment yourself if your insomnia continues.
Zopiclone Dosage in the UK
The appropriate zopiclone dose depends on factors such as age, health conditions, other medicines and individual response.
A commonly prescribed adult dose is 7.5 mg taken before bedtime, but you should only take the dose specifically prescribed for you.
A lower strength may be considered for some people, including certain older adults or people with liver or kidney problems, because they may be more susceptible to excessive sedation or other adverse effects.
Important dosage principles
- Take zopiclone exactly as prescribed.
- Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
- Do not take an additional tablet during the night unless specifically instructed.
- Do not change your dose because you think the medicine is not working.
- Do not continue treatment beyond the prescribed period without medical advice.
The correct dose is an individual medical decision. Never use another person’s zopiclone prescription.
When Should Zopiclone Be Taken?
Zopiclone is generally taken shortly before going to bed.
Because it can make you sleepy relatively quickly, you should make sure you are ready to go to bed after taking it.
It is particularly important to allow sufficient time for uninterrupted sleep. Taking a sedating medicine and then remaining awake can increase the likelihood of memory problems and unusual behaviour.
Follow the instructions supplied with your particular medicine and prescription.
Zopiclone and Sleep Quality
Zopiclone can help improve sleep in the short term by making it easier to fall asleep and potentially helping you remain asleep.
However, it should not be viewed as the only solution to persistent insomnia.
Good sleep habits may include:
- Keeping regular sleeping and waking times
- Creating a quiet and comfortable bedroom
- Limiting caffeine, particularly later in the day
- Avoiding alcohol before bedtime
- Reducing stimulating activities before sleep
- Keeping electronic-device use under control at night
- Addressing stress and anxiety where possible
For people experiencing persistent sleep problems, identifying and treating the underlying cause can be more useful in the long term than relying solely on sleeping tablets.
Common Zopiclone Side-Effects
Like all medicines, zopiclone can cause side-effects.
Commonly reported effects include:
- Bitter or metallic taste
- Dry mouth
- Sleepiness
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Reduced alertness
- Feeling confused or dazed
- Problems with coordination
Many side-effects are more noticeable when treatment begins and may become less troublesome over time.
If a side-effect is persistent, severe or concerning, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
Bitter or Metallic Taste
A bitter or metallic taste is one of the characteristic side-effects associated with zopiclone.
Some people may also experience dry mouth.
If you experience dry mouth, maintaining good dental hygiene is particularly important because persistent dry mouth can contribute to dental problems.
Regular brushing and dental check-ups can help protect your teeth and gums.
Zopiclone and Memory Problems
Zopiclone can affect memory, particularly if you do not go to sleep soon after taking it or if your sleep is interrupted.
Some people have reported carrying out activities while not fully awake and subsequently having little or no memory of what happened.
Unusual sleep-related behaviour can include activities such as:
- Walking around
- Preparing food
- Making telephone calls
- Sexual activity
- Driving
If you experience unusual behaviour during sleep or cannot remember activities that occurred after taking zopiclone, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Zopiclone and Alcohol
Do not drink alcohol while taking zopiclone.
Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of zopiclone and may result in excessive sleepiness, impaired coordination and difficulty waking.
The combination may also increase the risk of unusual sleep-related behaviour.
Alcohol itself can disrupt normal sleep patterns, so regular or heavy alcohol consumption may also make insomnia worse.
If you have concerns about alcohol use while taking zopiclone, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.
Zopiclone and Other Medicines
Zopiclone can interact with other medicines.
Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about everything you take, including:
- Prescription medicines
- Over-the-counter medicines
- Herbal remedies
- Supplements
- Medicines bought from a pharmacy
Particular caution is needed with other medicines that cause sedation.
Zopiclone and opioids
Combining zopiclone with opioid medicines such as morphine or dihydrocodeine can increase sedation and may affect breathing.
If these medicines are prescribed together, your healthcare professional should consider the risks and monitor treatment appropriately.
Never combine medicines that cause sedation without professional advice.
Zopiclone and Cannabis or Other Recreational Drugs
Combining zopiclone with cannabis or other recreational drugs can increase sedation and produce unpredictable effects.
The combination may make you extremely sleepy and could make it difficult to wake.
The contents and strength of illegal or unregulated drugs can also be unpredictable, creating additional risks.
If you use recreational drugs and have been prescribed zopiclone, speak honestly with your healthcare professional. This information helps them make safer treatment decisions.
Zopiclone and Caffeine
Caffeine has stimulating effects and can work against the goal of improving sleep.
Coffee, energy drinks, cola and other caffeinated drinks may contribute to anxiety, alertness and difficulty sleeping, particularly when consumed later in the day.
Reducing caffeine intake may therefore be useful for people experiencing insomnia.
Zopiclone and Driving
Zopiclone can affect concentration, coordination, alertness and reaction times.
Some people may feel tired, dizzy, confused or visually impaired after taking it, including the following day.
Do not drive, cycle or operate machinery if you feel affected.
You should know how zopiclone affects you before undertaking activities that require concentration or quick reactions.
The effects may be considerably stronger when zopiclone is combined with alcohol or other sedating substances.
If you are unsure whether you are fit to drive, speak with your doctor or pharmacist and follow current UK driving guidance.
Zopiclone and Dependence
Dependence is an important consideration with zopiclone.
Using the medicine for longer than recommended can increase the risk of becoming dependent on it.
Signs that you may need to discuss your treatment with your doctor include:
- Feeling that you need zopiclone to sleep
- Wanting to take more than prescribed
- Feeling that the medicine is becoming less effective
- Anxiety about stopping the medicine
- Sleep becoming worse when you try to stop
Do not increase your dose yourself.
If you have been taking zopiclone regularly, speak with your doctor before stopping treatment. They can advise whether the medicine should be reduced gradually.
Rebound Insomnia After Stopping Zopiclone
Some people experience rebound insomnia after stopping zopiclone.
This means that sleep problems can temporarily return or become worse than they were before treatment.
Some people may also notice changes in dreaming.
Rebound symptoms generally improve, but if sleep problems persist or become severe, speak with your doctor.
Do not restart or increase zopiclone without medical advice.
Zopiclone During Pregnancy
If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or become pregnant while taking zopiclone, speak with your doctor or midwife.
Your healthcare professional can discuss the potential benefits and risks of continuing treatment and help determine the most appropriate approach for you.
Do not make changes to prescribed medication during pregnancy without discussing them with your healthcare professional.
Zopiclone and Breastfeeding
Zopiclone can pass into breast milk in small amounts.
If you are breastfeeding, talk to your doctor, midwife or pharmacist before taking zopiclone.
Additional consideration may be required if your baby was born prematurely or has other health problems.
Seek medical advice if a breastfed baby becomes unusually sleepy, restless or develops feeding difficulties.
Zopiclone and Fertility
There is no established evidence that zopiclone reduces fertility.
If you are trying to conceive or planning a family, discuss your medication with your doctor.
They can consider your individual circumstances and whether any changes to treatment are appropriate.
Who May Need Extra Caution With Zopiclone?
Zopiclone may not be suitable for everyone.
Tell your doctor if you have:
- Breathing problems
- Sleep apnoea
- Liver problems
- Kidney problems
- A condition involving muscle weakness
- A history of drug or alcohol dependence
- Certain mental health conditions
- A previous allergic reaction to medicines
You should also tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Your doctor should also know about any other medicines or supplements you are taking.
Zopiclone and Everyday Life
Zopiclone is intended to help improve sleep, but it can influence everyday activities through its sedative effects.
Some people may experience:
- Sleepiness
- Reduced concentration
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Changes in coordination
- Memory problems
- Visual disturbances
These effects can be particularly important when driving, cycling, working with machinery or participating in activities that require concentration.
Let people close to you know about your treatment if appropriate, particularly if you are concerned about possible side-effects.
What Should You Do If Zopiclone Does Not Work?
Do not take an extra dose simply because you are still awake.
If zopiclone does not appear to be helping, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
Persistent insomnia may require a review of:
- The original cause of your sleep problem
- Your sleep routine
- Other medicines you are taking
- Your physical health
- Stress or anxiety
- Other possible sleep disorders
Changing the dose without medical advice can increase the risk of adverse effects and dependence.
Practical Tips for Better Sleep
Medication should not be the only strategy used to manage insomnia.
Useful sleep habits can include:
Keep a regular sleep schedule
Try to go to bed and wake up at consistent times.
Reduce caffeine
Avoid or reduce coffee, energy drinks, cola and other caffeinated products, particularly later in the day.
Create a suitable bedroom
A dark, quiet and comfortable bedroom can make it easier to establish a consistent sleep routine.
Limit stimulating activities before bed
Give yourself time to relax before going to sleep rather than moving directly from stressful or stimulating activities into bed.
Consider your alcohol intake
Alcohol can interfere with sleep quality and should be avoided when taking zopiclone.
Address ongoing stress
Stress and anxiety can contribute to insomnia. If these problems are persistent, consider discussing them with a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is zopiclone a sleeping tablet?
Yes. Zopiclone is a prescription hypnotic medicine used to treat insomnia for a short period.
Is zopiclone available in the UK?
Yes. Zopiclone is a prescription-only medicine in the UK.
What is the usual adult zopiclone dose?
A commonly prescribed adult dose is 7.5 mg before bedtime, but the appropriate dose depends on the individual. Some people may be prescribed a lower dose. Always take the dose prescribed by your healthcare professional.
How long can you take zopiclone?
Zopiclone is generally intended for short-term use. Treatment is normally kept as short as possible because tolerance and dependence can develop. Your doctor will determine the appropriate duration.
Can you take zopiclone every night?
If zopiclone has been prescribed for you, follow the schedule provided by your doctor. Do not decide independently to take it more frequently or for longer than prescribed.
Can you drink alcohol with zopiclone?
No. Alcohol should be avoided because it can increase the sedative effects of zopiclone and increase the risk of dangerous impairment.
Can zopiclone affect driving?
Yes. Zopiclone can cause drowsiness, dizziness, impaired coordination and reduced alertness. Do not drive or operate machinery if you are affected.
Can zopiclone cause dependence?
Yes. Dependence and tolerance can occur, particularly with prolonged use. This is why treatment is generally limited to a short period.
What happens if you stop zopiclone?
Some people experience temporary rebound insomnia or other withdrawal-related symptoms after stopping. If you have been taking it regularly, speak with your doctor about the safest way to stop.
Can zopiclone affect memory?
Yes. Memory problems can occur, particularly if you remain awake after taking the medicine or your sleep is interrupted.
What should you do if you forget taking zopiclone?
Do not take an additional dose simply because you are unsure whether you have already taken it. Check the instructions supplied with your medicine and speak with your pharmacist or doctor if you are uncertain.
When to Contact a Doctor or Pharmacist
Speak with a healthcare professional if:
- Your insomnia continues
- Zopiclone is no longer working as expected
- You experience troublesome side-effects
- You are concerned about dependence
- You want to stop treatment
- You are taking other medicines
- You are pregnant or planning a pregnancy
- You are breastfeeding
- You experience unusual sleep-related behaviour
Seek urgent medical assistance if you experience severe symptoms such as significant breathing difficulties, a severe allergic reaction or suspected overdose.
Key Takeaways
Zopiclone is a prescription sleeping medicine used in the UK for the short-term treatment of insomnia.
It can help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and may improve sleep continuity, but it is not normally intended for long-term use.
The most important safety points are:
- Take zopiclone only as prescribed.
- Use the lowest effective dose prescribed for you.
- Do not extend treatment without medical advice.
- Avoid alcohol while taking zopiclone.
- Be cautious with other medicines that cause sedation.
- Do not drive or operate machinery if you are impaired.
- Be aware of possible memory problems and unusual sleep-related behaviour.
- Understand that tolerance and dependence can develop.
- Speak with your doctor before stopping regular treatment.
- Continue using healthy sleep habits alongside any prescribed treatment.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is intended for general educational purposes and is written for readers in the United Kingdom. It does not provide a diagnosis, prescribe medication or recommend an individual dose.
Zopiclone is a prescription medicine and should only be used according to the instructions of a qualified healthcare professional. Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you have questions about dosage, side-effects, interactions, pregnancy, breastfeeding, dependence or stopping treatment, speak with your doctor or pharmacist