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Effects vary widely by individual, dose, and context.
The physical effects of zopiclone can be broken down into several components which progressively intensify proportional to dosage.
The general head space of zopiclone is described by many as one of intense sedation and decreased inhibition. It contains a large number of typical depressant cognitive effects.
These combinations are not usually physically harmful, but may produce undesirable effects, such as physical discomfort or overstimulation. Extreme use may cause physical health issues. Synergistic effects may be unpredictable. Care should be taken when choosing to use this combination.
Zopiclone has significant potential for psychological dependence, with cases of addiction and habituation well-documented. Compulsive redosing and blackouts are reported, and animal self-administration studies suggest high reinforcing potential. Some evidence suggests it may be more addictive than benzodiazepines. Those with a history of substance misuse or mental health disorders are at increased risk.
Physical dependence develops with prolonged use, even at therapeutic doses. Withdrawal symptoms similar to benzodiazepine withdrawal can occur even after gradual dose reduction, including significant agitation and anxiety that may require emergency medical attention. Convulsions are not typical at therapeutic doses and withdrawal is not considered life-threatening.
When taken alone, zopiclone overdose is usually not fatal; however, deaths have occurred, particularly when combined with alcohol, opioids, or other CNS depressants. It has a similar fatality index to most benzodiazepines, apart from temazepam which is more toxic. Fatal outcomes are more likely in patients with respiratory or hepatic disorders. Overdose presents with excessive sedation and respiratory depression that may progress to coma.
Long-term use has been associated with cognitive impairment including anterograde amnesia; impairments in body balance, standing steadiness, and motor coordination occur during intoxication and may persist the following day, with only partial tolerance developing to these effects over time.
Hallucinations, confusion, nightmares, and paradoxical effects are reported rarely. Hallucinogenic effects may occur if the drug is taken while attempting to stay awake rather than for sleep.
Withdrawal symptoms from therapeutic doses do not typically present with convulsions and are therefore not considered life-threatening in this regard.
Zopiclone was developed by the French pharmaceutical company Rhône-Poulenc S.A. and first introduced to the market in 1986. Rhône-Poulenc has since become part of Sanofi, which remains the primary global manufacturer. Upon its release, zopiclone was marketed as offering improvements over…
Approved for medical use and marketed since the mid-1990s. Multiple brand name products (Imovane, Act Zopiclone, M-zopiclone) and generic formulations (Apo-zopiclone, Ag-zopiclone) are available by prescription.
Became a federally scheduled controlled substance in 2005. Prior to scheduling, it was available but not specifically controlled under the Controlled Substances Act.
Available as a prescription medication, commonly dispensed in 3.75mg and 7.5mg tablet formulations for the treatment of insomnia.
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