Zopiclone Sleeping Pill Side Effects

Zopiclone is a non-benzoidiazepine hypnotic medication commonly prescribed as a "sleeping pill" for insomnia. Doctors prescribe zopiclone in Canada under the trade name Imovane and in the UK as Zimovane. In the United States, the FDA has not approved zopiclone for use. However, the active component in zopiclone, called eszopiclone, exists in the United States under the trade name Lunesta. Zopiclone and eszopiclone possess similar side effect profiles. Side effects occur in the short term, long term, and as a results of an interacton with other medications. Zopiclone helps individuals with insomnia but carries risk of side effects, some potentially serious. Zopiclone users should consult with a physician frequently to assess for side effects and to ensure safety.
Short Term Side Effects

Individuals taking zopiclone commonly complain of a metallic taste in the mouth. According to MayoClinic.com, the more common side effects of zopiclone include confusion, clumsiness, unsteadiness, daytime anxiety and restlessness, difficulty with coordination, mood and mental changes. Other side effects of zopiclone include morning hangovers from the medication, headaches and dry mouth.

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According to Drugs.com, individuals should only take zopiclone for 7 to 10 days at a time. Addiction, abuse and rebound insomnia have been reported with cessation. Patients should take special precaution if they have predisposition to these side effects.zopiclone sleeping pills
Rare Side Effects

MayoClinic.com reports memory and behavioral changes as potential side effects, especially in older patients. In rare cases, individuals may perform actions such as eating, cooking, or driving without recall of those events while taking zopiclone. Taking zopiclone with other substances, especially alcohol increases the chances of these rare side effects.
Groups at Higher Risk for Side Effects

Patients should avoid zopiclone if they have liver disease, kidney disease, lung disease, are depressed, breast-feeding or have a history of drug or alcohol abuse, says Drugs.com. Having one of these conditions places individuals at an increased risk for side effects. Side effects often occur when zopiclone interacts with other drugs including caffeine, carbamazepine, erythromycin, phenytoin, ketoconazole and several others.
Conclusion

Side effects occur in the short term, long term, and as a results of an interacton with other medications. Zopiclone helps individuals with insomnia but carries risk of side effects, some potentially serious. Zopiclone users should consult with a physician frequently to assess for side effects and to ensure safety.