Quick answer: Patient groupDoseTimingAdults (18–64)7.5mgImmediately before bedtimeOlder adults (65+)3.75mgImmediately before bedtimeRenal impairment3.75mgPrescriber may increase with cautionHepatic impairment (mild–moderate)3.75mgAvoid in severe hepatic impairment.
Standard adult dosage
| Patient group | Dose | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (18–64) | 7.5mg | Immediately before bedtime |
| Older adults (65+) | 3.75mg | Immediately before bedtime |
| Renal impairment | 3.75mg | Prescriber may increase with caution |
| Hepatic impairment (mild–moderate) | 3.75mg | Avoid in severe hepatic impairment |
How to take zopiclone correctly
- Swallow the tablet whole with water — do not crush or chew
- Take it immediately before going to bed — it acts quickly (30–60 minutes)
- Only take zopiclone when you have at least 7–8 hours available for sleep
- Do not take more than the prescribed dose
- Do not take a second tablet in the same night
How long to take it
Treatment should be as short as possible — typically 2 to 4 weeks. If zopiclone has been taken nightly for more than a few weeks, the dose should be reduced gradually rather than stopped abruptly. Talk to your prescriber before changing or stopping.
Missed dose guidance
If you miss your dose and it is still your planned bedtime, take it as soon as you remember. Do not take it if you are within a few hours of needing to wake up, as impairment the following morning is a serious safety risk — particularly for driving.
If too much is taken
Taking more than prescribed is dangerous. Symptoms of overdose include extreme drowsiness, confusion, breathing difficulties, and loss of consciousness. Call 999 immediately or go to A&E. Take the packaging with you. Read the full overdose guide.