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Non-Benzodiazepine Hypnotic (Z-Drug)

Zopiclone

Brand names: Zimovane

Zopiclone is a short-acting cyclopyrrolone hypnotic used for the short-term management of insomnia.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It enhances GABAergic inhibitory transmission by acting at the benzodiazepine binding site of the GABA-A receptor complex.

Prescribing in practice

  • Tolerance and dependence can develop, so it should be limited to short-term use at the lowest effective dose.
  • Next-day drowsiness can impair driving and skilled tasks, particularly in older people who are also more prone to falls.
  • A characteristic bitter or metallic taste is common and may affect adherence.

Monitoring

Review continued need regularly and monitor for dependence, daytime sedation and falls risk in older patients.

Counselling the patient

  • You may notice a bitter or metallic taste, which is harmless.
  • Avoid alcohol and do not drive if you feel drowsy the next day.
  • Use it for as short a time as possible to avoid becoming dependent.

Evidence & guidelines

NICE advises that hypnotics such as Z-drugs be used only for severe insomnia and for the shortest period possible.

Reference: NICE NG215 Insomnia; MHRA Drug Safety Update 2022; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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