Zopiclone — NZ Medication Guide
📋 Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ — This information is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
What is Zopiclone?
Zopiclone is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic (“Z-drug”) used for the short-term treatment of insomnia. This medication is funded by Pharmac for short-term insomnia.
What is Zopiclone Used For?
Zopiclone is used for the short-term management of insomnia — including difficulty falling asleep, early waking, and sleep disturbance associated with psychiatric disorders. It is intended for short-term use only (maximum 2–4 weeks).
How Does Zopiclone Work?
Zopiclone binds to the GABA-A receptor complex at the benzodiazepine binding site, enhancing the effect of GABA (the main inhibitory neurotransmitter), increasing chloride ion conductance and reducing neuronal excitability — producing sedation, anxiolysis, and muscle relaxation.
How to Take Zopiclone
Taken orally as a single dose at bedtime (7.5 mg standard adult dose; 3.75 mg in elderly patients). Take only when you can commit to at least 7–8 hours of sleep. Do not drive or operate machinery until fully alert the next day. Do not take with alcohol.
Common Side Effects of Zopiclone
- Bitter or metallic taste (very common)
- Drowsiness or sedation the next morning
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
Serious Side Effects — Seek Medical Attention
Contact your doctor or call 111 immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Dependence and withdrawal (tolerance develops rapidly — do not use continuously for more than 2–4 weeks)
- Anterograde amnesia (memory impairment of events after taking the tablet)
- Paradoxical agitation and aggression (rare)
- Complex sleep behaviours (sleep-walking, sleep-driving — rare but serious)
- Respiratory depression (with alcohol or CNS depressants — potentially fatal)
Drug Interactions
Zopiclone may interact with other medicines. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist of all medications you are taking. Key interactions include:
- Alcohol (potentiates sedation and respiratory depression — serious)
- CNS depressants (opioids, benzodiazepines — additive respiratory depression)
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (erythromycin, ketoconazole — increase zopiclone levels)
- Rifampicin (reduces zopiclone levels)
New Zealand Prescribing Information
Zopiclone (3.75 mg and 7.5 mg tablets) is funded by Pharmac. Like benzodiazepines, zopiclone carries significant risks of dependence, withdrawal, and next-day sedation. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is strongly recommended as the first-line treatment. Zopiclone should be a last resort, used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Elderly patients are particularly vulnerable to falls and cognitive impairment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is zopiclone addictive?
Yes — zopiclone can cause physical dependence with nightly use, particularly beyond 2–4 weeks. The brain adapts to the presence of zopiclone, and stopping abruptly can cause rebound insomnia, anxiety, sweating, and tremor. If you need to stop after prolonged use, taper gradually under medical supervision.
Is it safe to drive after taking zopiclone?
No — do not drive or operate machinery until you are fully alert the following day. Zopiclone impairs reaction time, coordination, and cognitive function for hours after waking. Road safety studies have shown increased crash risk with zopiclone use.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or a qualified health provider. In New Zealand, medication availability and funding may vary — check with Pharmac or your pharmacist for current information.
Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ
References & Further Information
The following New Zealand and international resources were used to inform this page: