Quick answer: With regular use, the brain downregulates GABA-A receptors to compensate for the constant sedation from zopiclone. When the drug is removed, these underactive GABA receptors result in a temporary state of neurological hyperexcitability, causing withdrawal symptoms.
Why withdrawal happens
With regular use, the brain downregulates GABA-A receptors to compensate for the constant sedation from zopiclone. When the drug is removed, these underactive GABA receptors result in a temporary state of neurological hyperexcitability, causing withdrawal symptoms.
Withdrawal symptoms
- Rebound insomnia — often worse than original sleep problems
- Anxiety and restlessness
- Irritability, mood swings
- Sweating, tremors, palpitations
- Muscle cramps
- Headache
- Nausea
- In severe cases: seizures (medical emergency — call 999)
How to stop safely: tapering
Never stop zopiclone suddenly after regular use. A gradual tapering schedule reduces withdrawal risk:
- Discuss a stopping plan with your GP before making any changes
- Reduce dose slowly — for example, from 7.5mg to 3.75mg, then to 3.75mg on alternate nights
- If on 3.75mg, tablets can be halved (scored tablet) to reduce further before stopping
- Switching to a longer-acting benzodiazepine (such as diazepam) for tapering is sometimes used in specialist settings
When to seek urgent help
Seek immediate medical attention if withdrawal causes: a seizure, severe confusion, hallucinations, or very high anxiety or panic that you cannot manage. Call 999 for a seizure or collapse.