Is it safe to take Zopiclone with other medications?
In this article, we will explore the safety considerations you need to make when combining Zopiclone with other medications. We will examine the active ingredient in Zopiclone and its potential interactions with various medications, foods, and drinks. Our focus is on providing clear, straightforward information to empower you in making informed decisions about your health.
What is the active ingredient in Zopiclone?
The active ingredient in Zopiclone is, according to the emc, Zopiclone itself. This compound belongs to a class of medications known as non-benzodiazepine hypnotics. Zopiclone acts on the central nervous system, specifically enhancing the effect of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
Zopiclone is primarily prescribed as a sleep aid for the short-term treatment of insomnia. Its purpose is to help individuals who experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. It's important to note that Zopiclone is typically recommended for short-term use, usually no more than four weeks, to avoid the potential for dependence or tolerance.
Does Zopiclone interact with other medications?
Yes, Zopiclone can interact with certain medications. Here are interactions with some commonly known medications according to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence:
Agomelatine: Both Zopiclone and Agomelatine can cause sedation, which might affect the ability to perform skilled tasks.
Alfentanil: Both Zopiclone and Alfentanil can cause sedation, potentially affecting the ability to perform skilled tasks.
Alimemazine: Both Zopiclone and Alimemazine can cause sedation, which might impact the ability to perform skilled tasks.
Alprazolam: Both Zopiclone and Alprazolam can cause sedation, which might affect the ability to perform skilled tasks.
Amisulpride: Both Zopiclone and Amisulpride can cause sedation, potentially impacting the ability to perform skilled tasks.
It's essential to be cautious when combining these medications, and it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure safe usage. Zopiclone can also interact with a number of different medications and can vary in severity of reaction. It is important to speak to your healthcare provider before you begin using any other medications alongside Zopiclone.
What are the typical adverse reactions reported from Zopiclone's interactions with other medications?
The interactions between Zopiclone and certain medications can result in increased sedation and potential side effects. According to the NHS, medications used for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, epilepsy, anxiety, or sleep problems may intensify the sedative effects of Zopiclone. Additionally, drugs for hay fever, allergies, and strong painkillers can contribute to heightened drowsiness when combined with Zopiclone. Antibiotics like erythromycin or clarithromycin, as well as certain antifungal medications and HIV treatments like ritonavir, may also interact with Zopiclone.
Does Zopiclone interact with medications for epilepsy?
Zopiclone may interact with medications for epilepsy, such as carbamazepine. Carbamazepine is a medication commonly used to treat various conditions, primarily epilepsy and bipolar disorder (Kuitunen et al, 1990). It belongs to a class of drugs known as anticonvulsants or antiepileptic drugs. Combining Zopiclone with epilepsy medications can potentially affect each other and increase the risk of side effects. Therefore, it's important to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before starting to take Zopiclone if you are already on medications for epilepsy.
Does Zopiclone interact with medications for sleep disorders?
Yes, Zopiclone can interact with medications used to treat sleep disorders. It's important to speak to your doctor or pharmacist before combining Zopiclone with other drugs specifically designed for sleep problems. This precaution helps ensure that potential interactions are identified and that you receive guidance on the safest and most effective use of these medications. According to Sleepstation, the recommended dosage of Zopiclone to help with sleep conditions like insomnia is 7.5mg once daily for up to four weeks. Exceeding this dose or using other sleeping medications alongside this dose can be dangerous.
Does Zopiclone interact with medications for mental disorders?
Yes, it is very important to be cautious when combining Zopiclone with medications for mental disorders. According to NHS advice, medications used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression can potentially interact with Zopiclone. These interactions may increase the sedating effects of Zopiclone, leading to possible side effects.
Does Zopiclone interact with medications for hay fever?
Yes, Zopiclone can interact with medications commonly used for hay fever, rashes, or allergies that have sedative effects. Specifically, sedative antihistamines like chlorphenamine or promethazine can potentially intensify the drowsy effects of Zopiclone (Thornton, 2023). Therefore, if you are considering taking Zopiclone and already use medications for hay fever or allergies, it's important to consult with your doctor or pharmacist.
Does Zopiclone interact with painkiller medications?
Zopiclone may interact with certain painkiller medications, including codeine. Combining Zopiclone with strong painkillers such as codeine can potentially enhance the sedative effects of both medications. It's crucial to seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist before using Zopiclone alongside painkillers to ensure your safety and avoid any potential adverse effects.
Does Zopiclone interact with medications for depression?
Zopiclone may interact with medications for depression, as reported by some individuals. When combining Zopiclone with medications for mental health problems such as depression or anxiety, the NHS has noted that there have been instances where people engaged in activities like sleepwalking, preparing food, or making phone calls while asleep. To ensure your safety and minimise the likelihood of these events, it's important to consult with your doctor before using Zopiclone alongside depression medications or any other substances.
Does Zopiclone interact with medications for anxiety?
Yes, Zopiclone can potentially interact with medications for anxiety. It's advisable to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before combining Zopiclone with medications specifically prescribed for anxiety. Interactions may occur, and your healthcare professional can provide personalised advice to ensure the safe and effective use of these medications together.
Does Zopiclone interact with medications for HIV?
Yes, Zopiclone may interact with medications used to treat HIV, such as ritonavir. If you are taking HIV medications, it's essential to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before incorporating Zopiclone into your treatment plan. Interactions with HIV medications can affect how each drug is metabolised in the body, potentially leading to side effects or reduced efficacy.
Does Zopiclone interact with alcohol?
Yes, according to the NHS, both Zopiclone and alcohol can have sedative effects on the central nervous system. Combining them may lead to an increased risk of drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. This interaction can affect your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking Zopiclone or, if necessary, to use alcohol cautiously and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Does Zopiclone interact with food?
According to the NHS, Zopiclone can be taken with or without food, as per your doctor's instructions. It's crucial to follow your doctor's guidance on the dosing schedule, as they may recommend taking the tablet on specific nights of the week rather than every night. When taking Zopiclone, ensure to swallow the tablet whole and avoid crushing or chewing it. This medication is designed to help with sleep, and adherence to your doctor's instructions will contribute to its effectiveness.
Should you speak to your doctor before taking Zopiclone?
Yes, according to NHS advice, it is essential to speak to your doctor or pharmacist before starting to take Zopiclone if you are taking any of the following medicines:
Medicines to treat schizophrenia or bipolar disorder
Medicines to treat depression
Medicines for epilepsy
Medicines to calm or reduce anxiety, or for sleep problems
Medicines for hay fever, rashes, or other allergies that can make you sleepy (sedating antihistamines, such as chlorphenamine or promethazine)
Strong painkillers such as codeine, methadone, morphine, oxycodone, pethidine, or tramadol
Erythromycin or clarithromycin, antibiotics used to treat infections
Medicines used to treat fungal infections, such as ketoconazole or itraconazole
Ritonavir, a medicine used to treat HIV infections
Do I require a prescription for Zopiclone?
Yes, Zopiclone is a prescription medication. You will need a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional, such as your doctor, to obtain and use Zopiclone. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the dosage and usage of Zopiclone and to consult with them if you have any concerns or questions about the medication.
Is Zopiclone available to purchase online?
Yes, you can purchase Zopiclone online from EU Meds. It is easy to purchase Zopiclone. Simply select your medication, the dosage and size you need and complete our free online consultation. This will provide you with a free private prescription you can use to complete your purchase.
Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Irfan Siddique MBBS
GMC reference no: 7694522
LinkedIn
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