Explanation/Definition
Zopiclon is a sleep-inducing or in high doses sleep-inducing drug (hypnotic), which is approved in Germany since 1994. Zopiclon improves the quality of sleep by shortening the time it takes to fall asleep, extending the time it takes to sleep through the night and reducing the time it takes to wake up at night. Optidorm (D) Zopiclodura (D) Zopitin (CZ) Somnal (A) Somnosan (D) Imovane (D, CH) Ximovan (D)
Chemical name
Zopiclon is the only cyclopyrrolone derivative approved as a sedative. Zopiclone is a so-called Z-drug. This means that it is very similar to the action of the sedative benzodiazepines, because Z-drugs, like benzodiazepines, bind to the sleep-inducing and sedative gamma-aminobutyric acid docking sites (GABA receptors) in the central nervous system.
Fields of application
Zopiclon is used as a sedative and especially for the short-term treatment of problems with falling and staying asleep. The sleeping pill (hypnotic) improves the quality of sleep also in the sense that it reduces nocturnal or very early morning waking. Due to the general attenuating effect of Zopiclon, anxiety-relieving (anxiolytic), antispasmodic (anticonvulsive) and muscle relaxing effects can also be observed when taking it.
Dosage formApplicationDosage
Zopiclon is taken in the form of a film-coated tablet directly before bedtime, unchewed and with plenty of liquid (preferably water). The dose (either 3.75 mg or 7.5 mg) is determined individually by the doctor, although a daily dose of 7.5 mg is common in healthy adults. In older or pre-diseased patients, a daily dose of 3.75 mg is usually started. It is of great importance that when taking Zopiclon, a sleep period of at least 7-8 hours should be guaranteed, as the drug can have a negative influence on the ability to react and thus, for example, the ability to drive can be considerably restricted. Furthermore, the intake of Zopiclon without medical advice should not exceed a duration of 4 weeks, otherwise there is a risk of dependence.
