Zopiclone is a non benzodiazepine sedative hypnotic medication used for the short term treatment of insomnia in adults. It belongs to the cyclopyrrolone class of sleep medications and is commonly recognized by the brand name Imovane in Canada. Health Canada currently lists Imovane and multiple generic zopiclone 7.5mg formulations as marketed prescription medications.
Zopiclone works by enhancing activity within the brain’s gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor system. GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and reduces neuronal activity. Zopiclone interacts with the GABA receptor complex and promotes chloride ion channel activity, producing sedative and sleep promoting effects. Although its activity resembles that of benzodiazepines, zopiclone is chemically distinct and interacts with the receptor complex differently.
Its pharmacological effects include hypnotic, sedative, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant and muscle relaxant activity. For insomnia, the primary therapeutic effect is reduced sleep latency and improved ability to maintain sleep throughout the night. Zopiclone is intended primarily for short term treatment when insomnia is significant enough to cause substantial distress or impairment.
Following oral administration, zopiclone is absorbed relatively quickly, with peak blood concentrations generally reached within approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Its elimination half-life is approximately 5 hours in healthy adults, although clearance may be slower in older adults and individuals with certain medical conditions. Zopiclone is metabolized primarily through CYP3A4, with CYP2C8 also contributing to metabolism.
This product provides:
- Active Ingredient: Zopiclone
- Strength: 7.5mg per tablet
- Quantity: 100 Tablets
- Drug Class: Non Benzodiazepine Sedative Hypnotic
- Dosage Form: Oral Tablet
- Common Brand: Imovane
- Primary Use: Short Term Treatment of Insomnia
Health Canada’s Drug Product Database confirms zopiclone 7.5mg as a marketed prescription tablet strength in Canada.
Zopiclone can cause drowsiness, dizziness, reduced coordination and next day psychomotor impairment. Patients may remain impaired after waking, particularly when adequate sleep time is not available or when zopiclone is combined with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants.
An important safety consideration involves complex sleep behaviors, including sleepwalking, preparing or eating food, making phone calls, having sex or driving while not fully awake, sometimes with no memory of the event afterward. Treatment should be stopped and medical advice obtained if these behaviors occur.
Repeated use can lead to tolerance, physical dependence and psychological dependence, with risk generally increasing with higher exposure and longer treatment duration. Abrupt discontinuation following regular use can produce withdrawal symptoms or rebound insomnia, so treatment discontinuation may require gradual reduction under medical supervision.
Zopiclone should be used according to the directions of a qualified healthcare professional. Extra caution may be required in older adults and individuals with respiratory impairment, liver impairment, sleep apnea, myasthenia gravis or those taking other sedating medications.
