How long does Zopiclone stay in your system

Zopiclone is a sleeping pill used for the short term treatment of insomnia, sleep disorders and other sleep problems. Zopiclone works by blocking specific receptors in your brain. These receptors are involved with arousal (wakefulness) and sleepiness. Zopiclone takes around one hour to work. It affects the calming neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA).

Zopiclone may be addictive due to its ability to produce tolerance. You need more of it over time before you feel sleepy. It is not a long term solution. You should avoid using it for longer periods. It can create physical dependence, rebound insomnia, withdrawal effects and other adverse effects. Your doctor may use lifestyle changes and cognitive behavioural therapy in managing insomnia before starting the medication due to Zopiclone addictive properties.

How does Zopiclone work?

Zopiclone is a sleeping pill sedative that works by acting on GABA receptors. It's a non-benzodiazepine sedative. This means it doesn't act like other sleep pills and doesn't make you feel dizzy when you take it.

Zopiclone can help you fall asleep faster than other sleep medications and increase sleep duration. The effects usually last between eight and nine hours after taking it.

How long does Zopiclone stay in your system?

• Zopiclone stays in our system for about twelve hours after taking it, and most people notice its effects for 8 to 9 hours.
• Zopiclone has a half life of 5 hours (range of 3.5-6.5 hours).
• For elderly patients, the half life is around 7 hours.
• Zopiclone can be detected in the blood for 5 to 7 hours.
• Zopiclone can be detected in your urine for 49 to 59 hours.
• Zopiclone can also be detected in saliva after you've taken the drug. This occurs after taking the medication and is usually due to cross-contamination with food or drink.

What are the side effects of Zopiclone?

Like other sleeping pills, Zopiclone can have side effects. Zopiclone side effects include Feeling anxious, headache, sweating, irregular heartbeat, difficulty concentrating, numbness, muscle pain,  and stomach problems.

In addition to these common side effects, there are rare ones as well. These include seizures and severe allergic reactions. In case of adverse effects, you will require immediate medical attention.

Do not use Zopiclone for more than 4 weeks, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Avoid driving after taking Zopiclone. The standard dose for older people is less than average. Do not take higher doses than the recommended dose, and only take a single dose before bedtime. Inform your doctor of any herbal remedies or other medications you may be taking.

Zopiclone and alcohol

Mixing alcohol with Zopiclone sleeping pills increases the sedative effects more than usual. If you have taken alcohol with Zopiclone, you must seek medical advice immediately. This could result in cognitive impairment, breathing problems, mental health problems, coma and death. Avoid taking alcohol with Zopiclone or other sleeping pills. You may have trouble staying awake the next day due to the sedative effect. There is also an increased risk for severe side effects.

Final word:

Understanding how long Zopiclone stays in the system is crucial. Patients using this medicine to treat insomnia should understand its impact. The duration of its presence in the system can depend on factors like dosage, age and metabolism. Always consult your doctor before starting sleeping tablets like Zopiclone and read the information leaflet.