Zopiclone 7.5 mg

Description

Introduction & Overview

Zopiclone 7.5 mg is a prescription medication belonging to a class of drugs known as non-benzodiazepine hypnotics, commonly referred to as “Z-drugs.” It is specifically designed for the short-term treatment of severe insomnia in adults. Its primary function is to initiate sleep by depressing the central nervous system, leading to a calming effect. It is one of the most frequently prescribed sleep aids in many countries due to its efficacy.

Key Specifications

• Active Ingredient: Zopiclone
• Standard Dosage: 7.5 milligrams (mg) per tablet. A lower 3.75 mg dose is available for the elderly or those with hepatic/renal impairments.
• Form: Film-coated, oval-shaped tablets (often imprinted with brand names or identifying marks).
• Administration: Oral, taken immediately before bedtime.

How It Works (Mechanism of Action)

Zopiclone works by enhancing the activity of a neurotransmitter in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is a chemical that inhibits nerve transmission in the brain, producing a calming effect.

• It binds to the GABA-A receptor complex, which slows down brain activity.
• This action helps to quieten the mind, reduce anxiety, and promote muscle relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep faster (decreases sleep latency).
• It also helps to maintain sleep, reducing the number of nighttime awakenings.

Indications & Uses (What it is For)

Zopiclone 7.5 mg is indicated for the short-term treatment (usually 2-4 weeks) of insomnia that is severe, disabling, or causing significant distress. This includes:

• Sleep Initiation Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep.
• Sleep Maintenance Insomnia: Difficulty staying asleep, waking up frequently during the night.
• Early Morning Awakening Insomnia: Waking up too early and being unable to fall back asleep.

Dosage and Administration

• Standard Adult Dose: One 7.5 mg tablet taken immediately before you go to bed.
• Critical Instructions:

  1. Ensure you have 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep time after taking the tablet. Taking it too late may result in drowsiness the next morning.

  2. Take the tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase the dose without consultation.

  3. It should be taken on an empty stomach, as food can delay its absorption and reduce its effectiveness.

• Duration of Treatment: Treatment should be as short as possible, typically not exceeding 4 weeks. Long-term use is discouraged due to the risk of tolerance and dependence.

Potential Side Effects

Like all medicines, Zopiclone can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

Very Common (≥1/10):

• Bitter or metallic taste in the mouth (a very characteristic side effect of Zopiclone)
• Dry mouth

Common (≥1/100 to <1/10):

• Drowsiness, sedation (especially the next day)
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Headache

Uncommon (≥1/1,000 to <1/100):

• Nausea, vomiting
• Fatigue
• Nightmares, agitation
• Confusion (especially in the elderly)

Rare but Serious (Seek immediate medical attention):

• Memory loss (amnesia)
• Hallucinations
• Severe allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, swelling)
• Depression, suicidal thoughts
• Complex sleep-related behaviours (e.g., sleepwalking, sleep-driving, preparing and eating food, or making phone calls while not fully awake).

Important Warnings & Contraindications

Contraindications: Do not take Zopiclone if you have:

• Myasthenia gravis.
• Severe respiratory failure (e.g., severe COPD).
• Severe sleep apnoea syndrome.
• A known hypersensitivity to Zopiclone or any of its ingredients.

Dependence and Withdrawal: Zopiclone has a potential for dependence (addiction), even at therapeutic doses. Abrupt cessation after regular use can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including rebound insomnia, anxiety, agitation, tremors, and sweating. It is crucial to taper off the dose gradually under medical supervision.

Tolerance: The body can become accustomed to the effects of Zopiclone over time, meaning the same dose may become less effective, tempting users to increase it. This is why its use is limited to the short term.

Drug Interactions: Zopiclone interacts dangerously with:

• Alcohol (increases sedative effect and risk of dangerous behaviours – avoid completely).
• Other CNS depressants (e.g., other sleeping pills, strong painkillers like opioids, antipsychotics, antidepressants, anticonvulsants).
• Erythromycin and other antibiotics.

Special Population Considerations

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended. It can cause harm to the unborn baby and is excreted in breast milk.
• Elderly: More sensitive to the effects and side effects (e.g., dizziness, confusion leading to falls). The recommended starting dose is 3.75 mg.
• People with Liver or Kidney Problems: Lower doses are required due to reduced ability to clear the drug from the body.
• Warning about “Next-Day Impairment”: Zopiclone can cause a “hangover effect” the next day, impairing alertness, coordination, and reaction times. Do not drive, operate machinery, or perform hazardous tasks until you are sure you are not affected.

Conclusion & Final Advice

Zopiclone 7.5 mg is a potent and effective medication for providing short-term relief from debilitating insomnia. However, its power comes with significant risks, including dependence, tolerance, and next-day impairment.

It is not a cure for insomnia but a temporary management tool. It should only be used under the strict guidance of a healthcare professional who can assess your individual situation, weigh the risks and benefits, and ensure it is used as safely as possible. Long-term management of insomnia should focus on addressing underlying causes and implementing good sleep hygiene practices (CBT-I).