Quick answer: Zopiclone can suppress the breathing reflex, particularly in:People with sleep apnoea or COPDOlder adultsWhen combined with alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepinesEmergency: If someone taking zopiclone is very difficult to wake, breathing slowly or shallowly, or has blue lips — call.
Respiratory depression — breathing emergency
Zopiclone can suppress the breathing reflex, particularly in:
- People with sleep apnoea or COPD
- Older adults
- When combined with alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines
Emergency: If someone taking zopiclone is very difficult to wake, breathing slowly or shallowly, or has blue lips — call 999 immediately. Do not leave them alone.
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
Though rare, anaphylaxis to zopiclone requires immediate emergency treatment:
- Sudden swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Hives or widespread rash
- Sudden breathing difficulty or wheeze
- Rapid heart rate and dizziness
Call 999 immediately.
Complex sleep behaviours — sleep driving
Sleep-driving — driving while asleep and with no memory of doing so — has been reported with zopiclone. This is a serious danger to the patient and the public. If this occurs:
- Stop zopiclone immediately
- Do not drive until assessed by your GP
- Report it to your prescriber urgently
The MHRA issued a Drug Safety Update specifically warning about this risk.
Mental health emergencies
If someone taking zopiclone develops thoughts of self-harm, suicidal ideation, or severe agitation and aggression, they need urgent mental health support. Call 999 for immediate danger to life, or NHS 111 for urgent but non-emergency mental health crisis.