Zopiclone belongs to the group of medicines called central nervous system depressants, which are characterized by their ability to make you drowsy or less alert. Zopiclone in particular is a medication that can only be obtained with a doctor's prescription. The pill is taken orally and is used to treat insomnia. Generally, when sleep medications are used on a nightly basis for an extended period of time, they can lose their effectiveness, which is why sleep aids must be used responsibly and no more than once or twice a week.
Function
Zopiclone is used to treat individuals suffering from chronic insomnia or who have trouble sleeping peacefully throughout an entire night. The drug should be taken only when you are able to get a full night's rest (7 to 8 hours of sleep); anything less than that and you will have trouble feeling awake or feel groggy for the remainder of your day.
Side Effects
Zopiclone, like other sleep aids, has been proven to cause what can only be described as amnesia--or slight memory loss--after taking the medication and until it has worn off. Usually, this side effect isn't very problematic because most people fall asleep after taking the medicine. If you are taking Zopiclone and experience memory loss, you should talk to your doctor.
Benefits
The responsible use of Zopiclone and other similar sleep aids can help those who have mild to severe sleeping problems get a full night's rest by gently coaxing them into a deep sleep. Though sleep apnea is a common sleep disturbance, Zopiclone should not be used by those suffering from this disorder, because the use of a sleeping aid may make the condition worse.
Warning
Zopiclone is habit-forming, which means it is an addictive substance. The sleeping aid should be taken only as often as your doctor recommends, and you should not exceed the recommended dose. This medication wasn't intended to be used for months on end. If it is taken irresponsibly, you can experience heart palpitations and withdrawal-like symptoms once excessive use of the drug has ceased.
Expert Insight
According to Dr. Nigel Simmons, occasional use of short-acting hypnotics such as Zopiclone can greatly improve the quality of life for insomniacs, but turning to sleep aids should be considered a last resort. Instead, trying to maintain normal sleep patterns without medication should be a top priority. Also, if you have to take sleep aids, Dr. Simmons strongly suggests reducing alcohol intake and not eating late at night.
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