Zopiclone

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One orange zopiclone tablet next to part of a pack of zopiclone.

Zopiclone or imovane is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic typically used for insomnia.[1][2] Hypnotic is a general term for any sleep-inducing drug.

Theory[edit | edit source]

Evidence[edit | edit source]

Risks and safety[edit | edit source]

Benzodiazepines are potentially addictive drugs, and even short term use can lead to dependence.[3]

Short-term benzodiazepine risks have been reported that use include some effects which are the opposite of the intended benefits:

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[edit | edit source]

Increased regulation including prescription monitoring programs are becoming increasingly used to reduce harms associated with benzodiazepine use.[3] These programs have previously been used to reduce opioid harms.[3]

See also[edit | edit source]

Learn more[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. "Zopiclone". Drugs.com. Retrieved August 28, 2020.
  2. "Zopiclone". drugbank.ca. Retrieved August 28, 2020.
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 https://res.mdpi.com/d_attachment/jcm/jcm-08-02143/article_deploy/jcm-08-02143-v3.pdf