Doctor explains Zopiclone | Uses, doses, side effects and more [Educational guide]

In this video Doctor O'Donovan explains key things you need to know about zopiclone - a sleeping aid medication that is used commonly to treat insomnia.

Other names for Zopiclone are Imovane.

Zopiclone is a type of sleeping pill that can be taken for short-term treatment of severe insomnia.

It helps you fall asleep more quickly, and also helps stop you waking up during the night. It works by affecting a calming chemical in your brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

Zopiclone comes as tablets. It also comes as a liquid for people who find it hard to swallow tablets, but your doctor will have to order this specially.

This medicine is only available on prescription.

Key facts

1. Zopiclone takes around 1 hour to work.
2. It's usually prescribed for just 2 to 4 weeks. This is because your body gets used to it quickly and after this time it's unlikely to have the same effect. Your body can also become dependent on it.
3. Common side effects are a metallic taste in your mouth, a dry mouth, and daytime sleepiness.
4. Do not drink alcohol while you're on zopiclone. Having them together can make you go into a deep sleep where you find it difficult to wake up.
5. If zopiclone makes you feel sleepy in the daytime, do not drive a car, ride a bike or use machinery.

*‘Reporting of side effects*

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the package leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at [a website address which links directly to the MHRA Yellow Card site].

By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.’

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Content and TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Introduction
01:24 - Who can and can't take zopiclone?
02:04 - How and when to take zopiclone
03:12 - Side effects from zopiclone
04:12 - Interactions with other medications
05:30 - Emergency and overdose information
06:00 - Common questions

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Further information from trusted sources:

Information from NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/zopiclone/

BNF information: https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/zopiclone/

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#doctor #health #medical #insomnia #imovane #zopiclone #medication #pharmacology
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Disclaimer:

The video is intended as an EDUCATIONAL resource only. It is ONLY intended as an instructional, factual guide and NOT advertising. The information within this video or on this channel is NOT designed to replace professional input, so if you have any medical issues please consult a medical provider. No professional relationship is being created by watching this video. Dr. O’Donovan cannot give any individual medical advice. All information should be verified for accuracy by the individual user. Dr O’Donovan accepts no responsibility for individual interpretation of data, although it is always accurate to the best of his knowledge at the time of the video being published. This is an EDUCATIONAL video. Images are used in accordance with fair use guidelines.

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Date published: 28/01/2024. Next review date: 22/01/2027