What is zopiclone?
Zopiclone is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic medicine — commonly called a "Z-drug" — licensed in the UK for the short-term management of insomnia. It works differently from older sleeping tablets (benzodiazepines) but acts on the same GABA receptors in the brain, producing sedation, reduced anxiety, and muscle relaxation.
The original brand name is Zimovane. Generic zopiclone is widely prescribed across the NHS. It is available as tablets in two strengths: 3.75mg and 7.5mg.
What is zopiclone used for?
Zopiclone is licensed in the UK specifically for short-term treatment of insomnia in adults aged 18 and over. It may be prescribed when insomnia is:
- Severe and causing significant distress or impairment
- Not responding to sleep hygiene improvements or cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)
- Related to a specific short-term stressor such as bereavement, acute anxiety, or medical illness
Zopiclone is not a long-term treatment. NICE guidance places it as a short-term adjunct after non-pharmacological approaches have been tried. See our full zopiclone uses guide.
Dosage and how to take it
| Patient group | Standard dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (18–64) | 7.5mg at bedtime | Take immediately before going to bed |
| Older adults (65+) | 3.75mg at bedtime | Lower dose to reduce fall risk and morning sedation |
| Kidney or liver impairment | 3.75mg at bedtime | Prescriber may titrate up with caution |
See the complete zopiclone dosage guide for full titration details and missed dose advice.
How zopiclone works
Zopiclone enhances the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the brain's primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. It binds to a specific site on the GABA-A receptor complex (the benzodiazepine binding site), increasing the frequency of chloride ion channel opening. This inhibits neuronal activity and produces sedation, muscle relaxation, and reduced anxiety. Read the full mechanism of action guide.
Common side effects
- Metallic or bitter taste — the most characteristic and commonly reported effect
- Drowsiness, dizziness, and light-headedness
- Dry mouth
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Headache
- Memory problems (particularly for events occurring after taking the tablet)
- Paradoxical reactions — agitation or aggressive behaviour (more common in older adults)
See the full side effects guide and the serious side effects guide for warning signs requiring urgent help.
Driving and next-morning impairment
Zopiclone causes significant next-morning sedation and impairs driving ability. Do not drive the morning after taking zopiclone. Under UK drug-driving legislation, driving while impaired by zopiclone is a criminal offence. The DVLA advises patients not to drive until they know how the medicine affects their alertness. See the full driving and zopiclone guide.
Dependence and controlled drug status
Zopiclone is a Class C Controlled Drug (Schedule 4 Part 1) in the UK. Physical and psychological dependence can develop after just a few weeks of regular use. Signs of dependence include needing the tablet to sleep, increased anxiety when a dose is missed, and the inability to sleep without it.
Never stop zopiclone abruptly after prolonged use — this can cause rebound insomnia, anxiety, and in severe cases, seizures. Read the zopiclone withdrawal guide.
Key interactions
Zopiclone interacts dangerously with:
- Alcohol — severely amplifies sedation and increases overdose risk. Never mix zopiclone with alcohol.
- Opioids, benzodiazepines, antihistamines, antidepressants, antipsychotics — additive CNS depression
- Certain antifungals (ketoconazole) and antibiotics (clarithromycin) — increase zopiclone blood levels
See the complete drug interactions guide.