How to take Zopiclone

In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about zopiclone, from what it is used for to how to use it safely. We'll explain the instructions outlined in the patient information leaflet to provide you with clear guidance on dosage, timing, and what to do if you miss a dose. As well as this, we'll discuss proper storage methods to ensure the medication's effectiveness and safety. 

Key Takeaways

What is Zopiclone Used For?

• Zopiclone is a medication primarily prescribed for short-term treatment of severe insomnia. It helps individuals fall asleep faster and reduces night-time awakenings by promoting a calming sensation in the brain. It's typically prescribed for 2-4 weeks as the body can quickly get used to the medication, making it less effective over time.

How to Take Zopiclone Safely:

• Follow the instructions provided by your doctor and the patient information leaflet.

• Take the medication just before bedtime with a glass of water without crushing or chewing the tablet.

• Avoid drinking alcohol as it can enhance the sedative effects of Zopiclone, leading to excessive drowsiness or serious side effects.

• Use Zopiclone only for short-term (2-4 weeks) to avoid dependence or withdrawal symptoms.

Storage and Missed Dose Instructions:

• Store Zopiclone in its original packaging at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, children, and pets.

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to your next scheduled dose. Do not double up on doses.

• Always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider if you have any concerns or experience unusual side effects.

What is Zopiclone used for?

According to the NHS, Zopiclone is primarily used as a short-term treatment for severe insomnia. The medication helps to assist the process of falling asleep, reducing the likelihood of waking up during the night. It works by influencing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain which helps to promote a calming sensation. The NHS also states that the medication is usually prescribed for between 2-4 weeks, and will take around an hour to work after you take it. This duration is most common as the body will get used to the medication quickly, reducing its effectiveness. 

Instructions: How to take Zopiclone

Always read the patient information leaflet dosage information:

Before you begin taking Zopiclone tablets you should make sure to read the patient information leaflet provided with the medication, or that is given to you by your doctor. It contains important information about how to take it and the potential side effects you may face. You should always follow your doctor's instructions exactly as they have been given to you. Do not take more or less than they say, and don't take it more often than they tell you to. Usually, adults take 7.5mg just before going to bed. If you're older or have problems with your liver or kidneys, you may be told to use a lower dose (Thornton, 2023).

Take Zopiclone with water:

The proper way to take Zopiclone is by swallowing the tablet whole with the aid of a glass of water. It is important to not crush or chew the tablet as this can negatively affect the way that the medication is released into your body (YoungMinds, 2024).

Consistent timing:

You should always use your medication at the time of day you have been told to by your healthcare provider, or by the instructions outlined in the patient information leaflet. Typically this medication is used just before you go to bed. You should avoid using them earlier in the evening as they can make you feel sleepy quite quickly (NHS, 2022).

Avoid drinking alcohol:

It is important to avoid drinking alcohol when you are using Zopiclone. This is because it can increase the sedative effects of the medication and can lead to excessive drowsiness or other serious side effects including difficulty waking up or breathing issues (NHS, 2022).

Limit your use:

Zopiclone is intended for short-term use only, this is usually for no longer than 2-4 weeks. This is because prolonged use can lead to reduced effectiveness of the medication, dependence or withdrawal symptoms when you stop using it (HSE, 2021).

Storage instructions:

You should always ensure to store your medication properly. This is to ensure that the medication remains effective and safe. You should keep Zopiclone tables in their original packaging away from moisture and heat. They should be stored at room temperature, away from children and pets (Dajani & Stewart, 2023).

What to do if you miss a dose:

If you forget to take a dose of Zopiclone you should take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for you to take your next dose. If this is the case then you should skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled. You should not double up on doses if you miss one (NHS, 2022).

Always seek medical advice:

If you have any concerns or questions about Zopiclone after you have been prescribed it then you should consult with your doctor or healthcare provider for advice. You should also speak to your doctor if you experience any unusual or particularly severe side effects whilst you are using the medication (Thornton, 2023).

Please note, that all requests for a supply of prescription medications are subject to an online clinical consultation and the decision to prescribe will be made by a GMC-registered doctor.

Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Irfan Siddique MBBS
GMC reference no: 7694522
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Sources

• NHS: How and When to Take Zopiclone

• Drugs.com: Zopiclone Dosage Information