Is Zolpidem the same as Zopiclon? | Welzo (2024)

What’s covered?

An overview;

Zolpidem (ZOL) and Zopiclone ( ZPL) are non-benzodiazepine hypnotic drugs and have distinct effects on your sleep pattern. The two drugs may have different impacts on the pattern of sleep because they act on the two main subtypes of GABA-A receptors in different ways.

In double-blind research comparing the two medications for the treatment of chronic primary insomnia, zolpidem was found to be at least as effective as zopiclone. It also exhibited a considerably lower risk of rebound chronic insomnia after stopping the medication and was more easily tolerated.

Short-term use of zolpidem is advised. It shouldn't be used for longer than two weeks. While zolpidem is typically regarded as safe and non-addictive, chronic use can result in misuse and dependency, which can cause uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms when use is discontinued.

Which drug is safe?

Numerous studies have demonstrated a good safety profile for zolpidem compared to benzodiazepine-class drugs. It's a safe and effective drug when taken at the recommended dosage. Zolpidem is however known to interact with drugs that primarily have sedative properties.

How can you take Zolpidem and Zopiclone?

Zolpidem;

It's important to read and comprehend the patient information that comes with the product package and the directions on how to take the medication before you begin taking Zolpidem. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure how to use a drug or if you have any other concerns.

According to your doctor's instructions, zolpidem should be ingested without food. Typically, one dose every night is taken. Since this medication takes effect immediately, taking it right before the night is essential. Zolpidem won't function as rapidly if you take it with or right after a meal, so avoid doing so.

Zopiclone;

According to your doctor's instructions, zopiclone should be taken by mouth before going to bed. Usually, it is used for about four weeks or less at a time. The medicine becomes quite ineffective after 4 weeks since the body quickly becomes adapted to it. Drug dependency may develop with repeated use.

Dosage of Zolpidem and Zopiclone;

Zolpidem therapeutic doses;

If you don't have enough time to get a full night's sleep, which should last seven to eight hours, don't take a Zolpidem dose.

Your age, gender, health, and any medications you are now taking will all affect the dosage of Zolpidem. Additionally, it will depend on how you react to the medication. You must adhere strictly to the dosage that your doctor has prescribed.

10 mg of zolpidem is the daily maximum dosage. Since zolpidem is eliminated from the body more slowly in women than in men, women are normally given a lower dose. The likelihood of side effects is also reduced by prescribing a lower dose to older persons because drug metabolism can often be slower with age.

Zopiclone dosage:

Take one 7.5 mg pill of Zopiclone before going to bed, as is the usual suggested dosage. For usage by older patients, a reduced dose of 3.75 mg is recommended.

Use of Zopiclon and Zolpidem;

It is a sleeping pill that is frequently used to treat sleep problems. With the help of zopiclone, you can go to sleep quickly and avoid waking up in the middle of the night. They are prescribed to treat various forms of insomnia and sleep disorders over a 2 to 4-week period. This medicine helps patients fall asleep more quickly and makes it less likely for patients to wake up during the night.

For those who have difficulty swallowing tablets, it is also available in liquid form. Sleeping pills extend the duration of sleep decreasing the frequency of awakenings enhances the sleep quality. It also improves sleep maintenance.

What precautions are taken with Zopiclone?

Precautions should be taken in the following health conditions while taking zopiclone.

1. In women with pregnancy
2. Breastfeeding mother
3. Using other medicine
4. Heart diseases
5. Central nervous system diseases
6. Mental health problems
7. The use of zolpidem with other central nervous system depressants, such as barbiturates and ethanol, should be avoided since there will be at least an additive effect in reducing central nervous system function and respiratory depression.

Adverse effects of zolpidem;

The side effects of zolpidem are different from individual to individual. You may not experience adverse effects.

Benzodiazepine drugs cause the following adverse effects;

Bitter or metallic taste

Drowsiness

Speech problems

Muscle weakness

Slow heartbeat

Light headache

Dizziness

Nausea and vomiting

Less common effects;

• Low blood pressure
• Increased production of saliva
• Digestion problem
• Skin rash
• Increased risk of infection

Can Zolpidem cause withdrawal symptoms?

You could develop an addiction to Zolpidem if you use them frequently and for a long time. If you stop taking it entirely or reduce your dosage, you can have physical withdrawal symptoms.

You might experience some of the following signs and withdrawal symptoms.

Rebound insomnia

Your insomnia can come back and it may be worse than before.

Anxiety;

Along with anxiety, you may experience also symptoms also, like a tight chest, fast heartbeat, muscle tension, sweating and trembling.

Vision problem;

1. You may not concentrate.
2. Loss of appetite
3. Feeling of depression

How can you safely discontinue Zolpidem?

If at all possible, decrease your dosage gradually after stopping Zolpidem. This lessens the possibility of going through withdrawal symptoms. More detailed guidance on how to drug-stop taking safely can be obtained from your doctor. It might be beneficial for you to discuss your withdrawal with others. This could, for instance, come from a nearby or online support group or assistance from friends and relatives.

At Welzo, we offer products and information for you to get a better night's sleep. See our range here.

If you would like to take an energy and fatigue test to determine if you have any underlying health concerns that may be making you feel tired, see our test here.

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