Zopiclone
Z-drug (hypnotic)
Indications
Short-term severe insomnia (≤4 weeks including taper)
Adult dose
7.5 mg nocte (3.75 mg in elderly/hepatic impairment).
Common side effects
Bitter/metallic tasteDrowsinessHeadache
Serious side effects
DependenceComplex sleep behaviours (sleep-driving)Falls (esp. elderly)Respiratory depression with opioids
Contraindications
Severe respiratory failureSleep apnoeaSevere hepatic impairmentMyasthenia gravis
Monitoring
- Limit duration; address sleep hygiene/CBT-I
Notable interactions
- Opioids
- Alcohol
- CYP3A4 modulators
Curated reference based on BNF, Maudsley Prescribing Guidelines and NICE. Verify against current BNF and local guidelines before prescribing.