Is Zopiclone Highly Addictive?

Zopiclone is a medication used to cause drowsiness and induce sleep. It was originally thought to be less addictive than benzodiazepines, but more recent studies have called that conclusion into question. Zopiclone is not available in the United States, but is sold in Canada under the brand name Imovane® and in the United Kingdom under the brand name Zimovane®.

History

• In April of 2005, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration listed zopiclone as a controlled substance, stating that it posed a risk of addiction similar to that of benzodiazepines such as Xanax® and Ativan®.

Time Frame

• According to Sanofi-Aventis, which manufactures zopiclone, doctors should prescribe the medication for no longer than two to four weeks to reduce the risk of the patient becoming dependent upon it.

Considerations

• Research has shown that the risk of addiction increases with the dosage of medication prescribed and with the length of treatment. Other risk factors for addiction include the patient having a history of addictions to drugs and/or alcohol, and the patient using zopiclone with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants.

Warning

• Zopiclone is not recommended for senior citizens, as it has been found to cause confusion and to increase the risk of falling in this population.

Similar Medications

• While zopiclone is not sold in the United States, close relatives include eszopiclone (Lunesta®) and zolpidem (Ambien®).

Benefits

• When prescribed and taken appropriately, zopiclone need not lead to addiction, and it can help induce sleep in people who are suffering from brief episodes of insomnia.