Zopiclone
Also known as: Zimovane
What it's for
Zopiclone is a sleeping tablet. It helps you fall asleep faster and sleep through the night. It is only for short-term use when you have severe sleeping problems.
Comes as: Tablets
How to take it
- Adults: Usually 7.5mg, taken just before bedtime.
- Older adults: Usually start with 3.75mg.
- Only use for 2 to 4 weeks at most.
- Make sure you can have 7 to 8 hours sleep before you need to be alert.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- A bitter or metallic taste in your mouth
- Feeling drowsy the next day
- Dry mouth
- Feeling dizzy
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Can be addictive - only use for short periods
- Do not drink alcohol
- Do not drive the next morning if you still feel drowsy
- Not suitable if you have severe breathing problems or sleep apnoea
Get medical help urgently if…
- You sleepwalk or do other activities while not fully awake
- You have memory loss or confusion
- You have difficulty breathing
- You feel very low or have thoughts of harming yourself
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.