Zopiclone is a popular prescription medication used for the short-term treatment of insomnia, helping people fall asleep quickly and stay asleep throughout the night. If you’re considering zopiclone or have recently started a prescription, you might wonder: How long does zopiclone take to kick in? This comprehensive, SEO-optimized article answers that question and offers essential information for safe and effective use.
Contents
How Long Does Zopiclone Take to Work?
Most clinical guidelines and reputable health organizations agree: Zopiclone takes about 1 hour to kick in after you take it. This means you should begin to feel drowsy or ready to fall asleep within 60 minutes of ingestion[1][2][3][4][5][6][7]. Because it acts quickly, it’s important to take zopiclone only when you are ready to go to bed and can allow for a full night’s sleep (7-8 hours) to avoid grogginess the next day[5][6].
- Onset time: 30-60 minutes for drowsiness[7].
- Peak effect: Around 1 hour after taking your dose[1][2][6].
- Lasting effect: Typically lasts through most of the night, helping you both fall asleep and reduce night-time awakenings.
How Does Zopiclone Work?
Zopiclone is a sedative-hypnotic medication. It works by increasing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) — a calming neurotransmitter in the brain. This action helps to quiet the nervous system, promoting relaxation and making it easier to fall and stay asleep[1][8][9][10].
Best Practices for Taking Zopiclone
- Take just before bed: Only take zopiclone when you are ready to sleep.
- Plan for a full night’s rest: Allocate 7-8 hours for sleep to minimize next-day drowsiness or memory issues[5][11][7].
- Never mix with alcohol: Combining zopiclone and alcohol can be dangerous, increasing sedative side effects and risk of deep, hard-to-wake sleep[1][5][6].
- Take as prescribed: Do not exceed your doctor’s recommended dose. Standard doses are 3.75mg or 7.5mg, depending on your age and health conditions[2].
- Short-term use ONLY: Zopiclone is intended for short bursts of treatment (usually just 2-4 weeks). Prolonged use increases the risk of dependence[1][12][10].
How Long Should You Take Zopiclone?
Zopiclone is typically prescribed for no more than 2-4 weeks[1][2][6][9]. The body can quickly build a tolerance, meaning the medication becomes less effective and dependency risk increases with longer-term use.
Benefits of Zopiclone
- Rapid action: Helps you fall asleep within an hour[1][6][7].
- More restful sleep: Reduces the number of wake-ups overnight and improves sleep quality[1][8][9][10].
- Ease of use: Usually taken once nightly, as a tablet that can be swallowed with or without food[2].
Common Side Effects
While most people tolerate zopiclone well, be aware of these potential side effects:
- Bitter or metallic taste in the mouth
- Dry mouth
- Daytime sleepiness
- Dizziness or headache
- Unusual behaviors (rare): Sleepwalking, amnesia, hallucinations, confusion[3][5][12][11][13]
Serious side effects are rare but seek immediate medical attention if you experience allergic reactions, severe confusion, or breathing issues[5][11][13].
Precautions & Who Should Avoid Zopiclone
- Avoid if pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy (unless advised by your doctor).
- People over 65, or those with liver/kidney problems, should use lower doses[2].
- Not suitable for long-term insomnia management — discuss alternatives with your doctor if sleep difficulties persist after stopping zopiclone[1][6][9].
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but a heavy or high-fat meal may delay absorption slightly. The medication will still work, but the onset could be a bit slower[2][14].
Conclusion: Zopiclone Onset Time
Zopiclone takes about one hour to kick in, helping you fall asleep quickly and stay asleep throughout the night. For best results, take zopiclone just before bedtime, ensure you’ll get 7-8 hours of sleep, and never combine it with alcohol or other sedatives[1][2][5][6]. Always follow your doctor’s directions and only use zopiclone for short periods to avoid side effects and dependence.
If you continue to experience sleep difficulties, speak with your healthcare provider for tailored advice and consider lifestyle changes or alternative therapies for insomnia.
This article is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for individual recommendations.
Reference:
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/zopiclone/about-zopiclone/
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/zopiclone/how-and-when-to-take-zopiclone/
- https://www.yashodahospitals.com/medicine-faqs/zopiclone/
- https://www2.hse.ie/medicines/zopiclone/
- https://www.drugs.com/zopiclone.html
- https://www.pharmxtra.com/blog/how-long-for-zopiclone-to-work
- https://keltymentalhealth.ca/sites/default/files/documents/zopiclone_medication_information_-_may_2013.pdf
- https://www.apollopharmacy.in/salt/Zopiclone
- https://zeelabpharmacy.com/generic-salt/zopiclone
- https://www.primroselodge.com/blog/medicine/exploring-zopiclones-influence-on-daily-life/
- https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/zopiclone-uses-dosage-side-effects
- https://www.primroselodge.com/blog/health-and-wellbeing/side-effects-zopiclone/
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/zopiclone/side-effects-of-zopiclone/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zopiclone
Also Read: Zopiclone Bad Taste in Mouth: Causes, Solutions, and Tips for Relief