Is zopiclone a sleeping pill?
Oct 17, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Introduction
In general, zopiclone is a hypnotic medication. It is available primarily in tablet and capsule forms and belongs to the class of sleep aids. Zopiclone is a third-generation cyclopyrrolone hypnotic agent whose mechanism of action involves enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. It exerts sedative, hypnotic, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant effects, and is indicated for the short-term treatment of insomnia.
Generally speaking, zopiclone is a hypnotic medication. The main formulations of zopiclone include tablets and capsules, making it one type of sleep aid. Specific analysis is as follows:
Zopiclone belongs to the cyclopyrrolone class of drugs. Its mechanism of action involves enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, producing sedative, hypnotic, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant effects. It is indicated for the short-term treatment of insomnia. This medication helps patients fall asleep faster, prolongs sleep duration, and reduces nighttime awakenings. After oral administration, zopiclone is rapidly absorbed and typically begins to take effect within about 20 minutes. Peak blood concentration is reached 1.5 to 2 hours after dosing. The drug is widely distributed throughout the body and is primarily metabolized in the liver. Zopiclone may cause side effects on the nervous and mental systems, such as dizziness or headache. Therefore, patients taking zopiclone should avoid activities requiring high levels of concentration, such as driving, working at heights, or operating machinery.
The use of this medication must be conducted under the guidance of a physician. Patients should never use it without medical supervision to avoid adverse reactions.
