Why Trust Recovery Guide Zopiclone, sold under the brand name Imovane, is a nonbenzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic used for the short-term treatment of insomnia. Many people take zopiclone longer than prescribed or in higher doses than they should, which may eventually lead to a substance use disorder (sleeping pill addiction).
While there are many health risks associated with zopiclone addiction, help is available in the form of evidence-based addiction treatment programs.
How Zopiclone Works In The Body
When zopiclone is ingested, the brain releases a chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) that calms the central nervous system and helps induce relaxation and sleep.
When taken as directed, zopiclone increases total sleep time by reducing how much a person wakes up during the night, and promotes a restful night’s sleep.
Is Zopiclone Addictive?
Some people take zopiclone and experience a euphoric, dream-like sensation before going to sleep.
Much like other prescription sedatives, long-term use of zopiclone may increase the risk of dependence, particularly when taken in high doses.
Why People Misuse Zopiclone
While zopiclone is prescribed for legitimate insomnia treatment, several factors lead people to misuse this medication. Some individuals take higher doses than prescribed hoping to achieve better or faster sleep, not realizing this increases addiction risk. Others continue taking zopiclone beyond the recommended short-term period (usually 2-4 weeks) because they fear their insomnia will return, over time leading to psychological and physical dependence.
Some people misuse zopiclone for the euphoric, dream-like effects it produces before sleep, using it recreationally rather than for medical purposes. Individuals with anxiety or stress may take extra doses seeking relief from their worries, while those with substance abuse histories might combine zopiclone with alcohol or other drugs to intensify sedative effects.
Common Side Effects Of Zopiclone Abuse
Misusing zopiclone can cause a range of side effects that become more pronounced with higher doses or prolonged use. Common side effects include persistent headaches, a metallic or bitter taste in the mouth, dry mouth, upset stomach and nausea, excessive daytime drowsiness, dizziness and loss of coordination, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes including irritability or depression.
More severe side effects associated with chronic zopiclone abuse include paradoxical insomnia where sleep quality actually worsens, visual and auditory hallucinations, significant cognitive impairment affecting judgment, confusion and disorientation, aggressive or unusual behavior, and in extreme cases, potential brain damage from long-term misuse.
People abusing zopiclone may also experience “sleep-driving” or performing complex activities while not fully awake with no memory of the events.
What Are The Dangers Of Zopiclone Abuse?
When misused, zopiclone can cause severe drowsiness, palpitations, and respiratory depression, which can lead to coma or even death.
A fatal overdose on zopiclone may even be more likely if it is taken in combination with other central nervous system depressants, such as opioids or alcohol.
Signs Of Zopiclone Overdose
Zopiclone overdose occurs when someone takes too much zopiclone over a short period of time, or mixes the drug with alcohol or other substances, particularly CNS depressants.
Symptoms of zopiclone overdose may include:
- confusion
- pale skin
- blurred vision
- low blood pressure
- excessive drowsiness
- coma
Overdose due to drug abuse may lead to life-threatening health problems, and emergency medical treatment should be sought immediately.
How Zopiclone Abuse Leads To Withdrawal Symptoms
Discontinuation or reducing the prescribing dose of sleep aids such as zopiclone after the body has become physically dependent on the drug may lead to withdrawal symptoms.
Zopiclone withdrawal effects may include:
- anxiety
- shakes or tremors
- drowsiness
- nausea
- ataxia (poor muscle control)
- dry mouth
- intense cravings
- psychomotor slowness
Additionally, six to eight hours after the last dose of zopiclone, you may experience symptoms such as rebound insomnia, a sense of apprehension, and an increased appetite.
Treatment Options For Zopiclone Addiction
When a person has an addiction to zopiclone, they may benefit from evidence-based treatment services provided at a drug rehab facility.
Substance abuse treatment options may include:
- medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- intervention services
- detoxification, including a tapering schedule
- medically monitored detox
- cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- group therapy
- individual counseling
- residential treatment
- mental health services
- outpatient treatment
- support groups for people addicted to prescription drugs
- intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
- aftercare services
People addicted to drugs such as Lunesta, zimovane, other sedative-hypnotic drugs, or antidepressants should seek help immediately to reduce the risk of overdose and other health issues.
FAQs For Zopiclone Addiction
The information listed below may help answer your questions about zopiclone abuse and drug addiction treatment.
How Much Does Zopiclone Cost On The Street?
The street cost of zopiclone may range from .10 to one dollar per pill, depending on where the drug is being sold and who is purchasing it.
Does Zopiclone Use Lead To Tolerance?
People typically do not develop a tolerance to zopiclone when taken over a four-week period as prescribed. Continued use after four weeks may lead to tolerance and zopiclone dependency.
Does Zopiclone Cause Hallucinations?
Yes, many people who misuse zopiclone will experience hallucinations. This drug can also make you feel as if your body is stretching out or shrinking in size.
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These include peer-reviewed journals, government entities and academic institutions, and leaders in addiction healthcare and advocacy. Learn more about how we safeguard our content by viewing our editorial policy.
- National Health Services (NHS) — Side effects of zopiclone
https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/zopiclone/side-effects-of-zopiclone/ - National Library of Medicine — Fatal overdose of zopiclone in an elderly woman with bronchogenic carcinoma
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11569575/ - National Library of Medicine — Physical dependence on zopiclone
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1113504/ - U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) — Taking Z-drugs for Insomnia? Know the Risks
https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/taking-z-drugs-insomnia-know-risks