Zopiclone is a sleep aid medicine prescribed to help deal with insomnia only for a short period of time. The effect of the medicine may be opposite – it might cause you difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep but on the other hand, you might experience drowsiness or feeling of fatigue or lack of alertness the next day. This action is sometimes referred to as the next day drowsiness effect of zopiclone.
Although morning drowsiness doesn’t indicate that zopiclone is not suitable, it may mean that it is a safety concern if it has an impact on how well you concentrate, coordinate and/or drive. The risk of residual sleepiness may be related to the dosage, time of sleep use, insufficient sleep, age and the use of other drugs and drug sensitivity.
These effects can be understood to make zopiclone use safer. When experiencing continuous or excessive drowsiness the next morning, you should talk to your doctor or pharmacist about it, but not change your dose of the drug yourself.
How Zopiclone Works
Zopiclone is a hypnotic that affects the central nervous system. It is a GABA enhancer – a chemical that depresses central nervous system activity.
This results in a calming effect, making a person drowsy and possibly decreasing the duration to get to sleep. Zopiclone can also assist people to stay asleep at night.
It is usually recommended for short term use as some individuals may become tolerant, dependent and experience withdrawal symptoms if used for extended periods of time. In addition, the cause of insomnia should be taken into account, rather than always using sleeping pills.
Does Zopiclone Cause Next-Day Sleepiness?
Yes, people can suffer from zopiclone next day drowsiness. Others might get up feeling fairly well but still may be tired, dizzy, slower to concentrate or react.
The effects can last into the morning as while the drug is meant to be taken at night, the effects do not necessarily wear off as soon as the person wakes.
A number of things can make it more likely to get residual sedation:
- Using more than the recommended amount.
- Being late to bed with zopiclone
- Not getting enough restful sleep
- Older age and for some, sensitivity to sedative drugs
- Liver or kidney disease, or even some other medical condition.
- Using other medications that make people drowsy
- Administering alcohol with zopiclone
If you find that you are sleepy, dizzy or impaired the following morning, do not take part in activities such as driving, cycling, using machinery etc until you are completely alert.
Tips to Minimise Next-Day Sedation
It is important to take zopiclone as directed. Never give more, as it may not be working well enough.
Zopiclone is normally taken immediately before going to bed. There is enough time needed to sleep it off following administration of this. Using the sedative medication when you know you will need to get up in a few hours may lead to drowsiness for a longer period.
Avoid alcohol as it may enhance the sedative effects of zopiclone. The same can be said for other sleep-inducing drugs, except when a doctor or other qualified health care provider has determined that it is safe and suitable.
Your doctor might re-evaluate your dose, the length of time the medicine is needed, sleep pattern, and other medicines if you are still drowsy in the morning. They can also share some other medications that can be used for insomnia, or any non-drug options that can be used if appropriate.
When to Avoid Zopiclone
Zopiclone should not be taken by all people. Let your doctor know of any medical conditions or medications/supplements you are taking before your treatment.
Special attention might be required in individuals with certain breathing issues, sleep apnoea, significant liver issues or past experience of drug, alcohol or dependancy.
Some medicines that also effect the central nervous system can interact with zopiclone. Some sedatives, opioid medications and medicines for anxiety or other sleeping difficulties. Mixing these substances might add to the drowsiness and, in some cases, breathing issues.
You should not take alcohol along with zopiclone as it may enhance the action of the drug.
How to Use Zopiclone Safely
Take zopiclone only as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more than prescribed, take additional tablets during the night or continue treatment for longer than recommended.
Your doctor or nurse practitioner may check on your sleep pattern and efficacy of the medication. You may not be able to just increase the dose if insomnia persists if there’s a problem.
The risks of sedation, dizziness, and falling may increase in older patients. Pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers should inform their physician or pharmacy (insomnia medications) of their physician regarding the safety of prescription sleep aids.
Be aware of the influence of zopiclone on alertness and co-ordination. During and after using zopiclone exercise caution when operating a motor vehicle or engaging in activities requiring alertness and co-ordination. If you don’t know if you are alert enough, do not drive and get professional advice.
Considering Insomnia Medications? Speak to a Clinician
There are several ways of dealing with insomnia and not all of them will suit the individual. A health care worker can look at possible causes and review the options for treatment.
At an appointment you’ll probably be asked:
- How long your sleep problems have lasted
- How often you have difficulty sleeping
- Your bedtime and waking routine
- Stress, anxiety and other factors affecting sleep
- Alcohol, caffeine and other substances
- Existing medical conditions
- Medicines you currently take
If sleep problems are persistent, other ways of tackling insomnia which do not involve drugs like good sleep hygiene and CBT-I can be considered.
Your healthcare provider will give you detailed information about the various insomniacs’ medications including what these drugs can do, the possible side effects and length of usage.
How to Approach Online Zopiclone Services Safely
Those looking for order zopiclone online ought to keep in mind that in the UK zopiclone is a prescription-only drug. It must be provided via a suitable healthcare pathway including a suitable clinical assessment and prescription.
FAQs
Yes. Drowsiness, dizziness and reduced alertness can occur the following morning, particularly when the medicine is taken late or insufficient time is allowed for sleep.
The main sedative effect occurs during the night, but residual effects may continue into the following morning. Individual responses vary.
Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of zopiclone and may increase impairment. It should be avoided while taking the medicine unless a healthcare professional specifically advises otherwise.
Speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Do not change the dose yourself. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you remain sleepy or impaired.
Conclusion
When administered according to directions, zopiclone can be used to treat insomnia for a short time but, zopiclone the next day sleepiness is one of the side effects. If you take the dose you’re supposed to at bedtime and get plenty of sleep and avoid alcohol, you won’t get too sedated.
Your healthcare provider will evaluate with you if you feel sedated during the day and if it affects your ability to do things. They will consider whether the treatment being used needs modification or perhaps another insomnia medications would suit you better.