Zopiclone
Zopiclone is a hypnotic (sleeping tablet) prescribed for short-term insomnia when non-drug measures have not been enough and your prescriber thinks medicine is appropriate. Guidelines usually limit how long it is used continuously because of tolerance and dependence.
This medicine is part of the Mental health medicines category.
Generic name: zopiclone
Quick answers
Short replies to searches people often run before speaking to a clinician. For the overview of what the medicine is used for, see the short summary under the page title above.
What is it for?
Zopiclone is a hypnotic (sleeping tablet) prescribed for short-term insomnia when non-drug measures have not been enough and your prescriber thinks medicine is appropriate.
How long does it take to work?
Onset varies by condition and dose. Your GP or pharmacist can explain what to expect and when to review.
What are common side effects?
Common effects include a bitter or metallic taste, dry mouth, daytime sleepiness, dizziness, and headache.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with it?
Ask your GP or pharmacist before taking Zopiclone with paracetamol or ibuprofen. Many adults use paracetamol for short periods when appropriate; NSAIDs such as ibuprofen need extra checks with your other medicines and health conditions.
More about what Zopiclone is used for
Zopiclone is a hypnotic (sleeping tablet) prescribed for short-term insomnia when non-drug measures have not been enough and your prescriber thinks medicine is appropriate.
Guidelines usually limit how long it is used continuously because of tolerance and dependence.
How does Zopiclone work, and how long does it take to work?
It acts on brain pathways similar to benzodiazepines, helping you get to sleep faster; sleep quality may improve for some people.
It does not treat the underlying cause of long-term insomnia, which may need sleep hygiene, CBT-I, or other approaches.
How and when should you take Zopiclone?
Take immediately before bed when you can have a full night’s sleep (often 7–8 hours) before needing to be alert. Swallow with water.
Do not take with alcohol. Do not drive if you still feel sleepy the next morning.
What are the common side effects of Zopiclone?
Common effects include a bitter or metallic taste, dry mouth, daytime sleepiness, dizziness, and headache.
Older adults have higher risk of confusion and falls.
Serious side effects of Zopiclone — when to get urgent help
Seek urgent help for severe allergic reaction, behaviour changes, or breathing problems — especially if combined with other sedatives.
Sleep-walking or doing activities while not fully awake can rarely occur with sleeping tablets.
What if you miss a dose of Zopiclone?
If you forget at bedtime, do not take in the middle of the night unless you can still sleep long enough before needing to be alert — check your leaflet or ask your pharmacist.
Do not double the next night’s dose.
Who should not take Zopiclone?
Not suitable for some people with severe muscle weakness, severe breathing problems, or sleep apnoea without specialist input. Caution in liver problems and in older age.
Dependence and withdrawal insomnia can occur — use only as prescribed.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with Zopiclone? — other interactions
Strong interactions with alcohol, opioids, Diazepam, and many sedating medicines. Check every new prescription.
Zopiclone in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Discuss with your GP before use in pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Blood tests and monitoring on Zopiclone
Your prescriber may review weekly or after a short course whether zopiclone is still needed.
What might your GP prescribe instead of Zopiclone?
Sleep hygiene, cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia, Melatonin (when appropriate), or treating pain, low mood, or other causes of poor sleep may be preferred longer term.
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Reviewed by UK registered pharmacists for accuracy and clarity. Content is informational only.
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Frequently asked questions about Zopiclone
People also ask — common Google searches
- What is Zopiclone used for?
- Zopiclone is a hypnotic (sleeping tablet) prescribed for short-term insomnia when non-drug measures have not been enough and your prescriber thinks medicine is appropriate. Guidelines usually limit how long it is used continuously because of tolerance and dependence.
- How long does Zopiclone take to work?
- Onset varies by condition and dose. Your GP or pharmacist can explain what to expect and when to review. Always follow your prescriber’s follow-up plan.
- Can you take Zopiclone with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
- Ask your GP or pharmacist before taking Zopiclone with Paracetamol or Ibuprofen. Many adults use paracetamol for short periods when appropriate; NSAIDs such as ibuprofen need extra checks with your other medicines and health conditions.
- What are the side effects of Zopiclone?
- Common effects include a bitter or metallic taste, dry mouth, daytime sleepiness, dizziness, and headache. Older adults have higher risk of confusion and falls. See the sections below for more detail, including serious side effects and when to seek urgent help.
- Why does zopiclone leave a funny taste?
- A bitter or metallic taste is a well-known side effect for some people. It usually fades but can be bothersome — mention it to your GP if it affects you.
- Is zopiclone addictive?
- Tolerance and dependence can develop, especially with longer use or higher doses. It is usually prescribed for short periods with review.
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