Zopiclone

Zopiclone or imovane is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic typically used for insomnia. Hypnotic is a general term for any sleep-inducing drug.

Risks and safety
Benzodiazepines are potentially addictive drugs, and even short term use can lead to dependence.

Short-term benzodiazepine risks have been reported that use include some effects which are the opposite of the intended benefits:
 * increased anxiety
 * agitation
 * disinhibition
 * aggression

Risks of long-term use of benzodiazepines include:
 * cognitive deficits
 * reduced quality of life
 * depression
 * increased risk of suicide
 * increased risk for road accidents
 * older adults have an increased risk of falls, dementia and death
 * deaths caused by benzodiazepine overdose have been widely reported in Australia, North America and Europe

Prescription monitoring programs
Increased regulation including prescription monitoring programs are becoming increasingly used to reduce harms associated with benzodiazepine use. These programs have previously been used to reduce opioid harms.

Learn more

 * Zopiclone - drugbank.ca
 * Dependence on benzodiazepines and Z-drugs - Pharmaceutical Journal