Description
Zopinap (Zopiclone) 7.5 mg
Zopinap 7.5 mg is a branded presentation of zopiclone, a sedative-hypnotic medicine used for the short-term treatment of insomnia. It is intended to help with sleep problems such as difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.
Active Ingredient and Medicine Class
The verified active ingredient is zopiclone. It belongs to the cyclopyrrolone group of hypnotic medicines and is commonly described as a non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic with benzodiazepine-like effects on the central nervous system.
Established Medical Uses
Official product information supports zopiclone for the short-term treatment of insomnia in adults. Regulatory information emphasises limiting use to the shortest possible duration because of dependence, tolerance and withdrawal risks.
How It Works
Zopiclone enhances inhibitory signalling in the brain through the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system, producing a calming and sleep-promoting effect. Clinical reviews describe this as the main mechanism underlying its hypnotic action.
Important Safety Information
Zopiclone is associated with important safety concerns including dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms if treatment is stopped suddenly. Product information also warns about next-day psychomotor impairment, reduced ability to drive or use machines, and unusual behaviours during sleep such as sleepwalking or sleep-driving.
Clinically significant interactions can occur with alcohol, other central nervous system depressants, and especially opioids, which may increase the risk of excessive sedation and respiratory depression. Use is not recommended during pregnancy, and breastfeeding should be avoided according to the referenced product information.
Possible Side Effects
Reported adverse effects include sleepiness, metallic or altered taste, dry mouth, headache, memory impairment, dizziness, confusion, and falls, particularly in older adults. More serious reactions can include hallucinations, abnormal behaviour, allergic reactions, breathing problems, and withdrawal symptoms after stopping treatment.
Scientific Evidence
Peer-reviewed reviews report that zopiclone has demonstrated efficacy for insomnia and is generally comparable with older benzodiazepine hypnotics in improving sleep, while also highlighting concerns about tolerability, withdrawal, and residual sedation. A more recent systematic review found that zopiclone remains an effective insomnia medicine, but safety and adverse effects remain important considerations, especially in older adults.
Medical Information Notice
This educational summary is based on sources available at the time of review and does not replace the official patient leaflet, prescribing information, or individual assessment by a qualified health professional.
Medical Sources
- Medicines.org.uk (emc): Zopiclone 7.5mg film-coated tablets – Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)
- Medicines.org.uk (emc): Zopiclone Tablets – Package Leaflet
- Riemann D, et al. Zopiclone to treat insomnia in older adults: A systematic review. Clinical Interventions in Aging. 2021.
- Mendlewicz J, et al. Zopiclone. An update of its pharmacology, clinical efficacy and tolerability in the treatment of insomnia. CNS Drugs. 1998.
