Zopiclone can it cause depression

It can hasten sleep onset by 15 minutes and induces a euphoric dream-like state. However, it is strongly addictive, with some users developing dependence to zopiclone within only a few weeks of use.

In the UK zopiclone is a class C controlled drug, supposedly available only through prescription — although there is a substantial black market for the drug. It is responsible for a great deal of road traffic accidents in the UK. Not everyone quitting zopiclone will experience withdrawal symptoms and most people experience only a few, not the complete list of possible symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms can be minimised by tapering the dose see further down for more info. Typical withdrawal symptoms include:.

Zopiclone works by increasing the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA. GABA suppresses excitatory neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, epinephrine noradrenaline and acetylcholine. These excitatory transmitters play important roles in memory, muscle movement, alertness, emotional regulation, heart rate and blood pressure and hormonal secretions. This is why taking chronic high doses of zopiclone can cause such a variety of health problems and why people experience such a wide array of withdrawal symptoms after stopping.

Never take an extra dose to make up for a forgotten one. What if I take too much? If you have taken more than your prescribed dose by accident, call your doctor for advice.

Urgent advice: Contact a doctor now if:. Not everyone will get side effects with zopiclone. These common side effects happen in more than 1 in people. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if these side effects bother you or do not go away: a bitter or metallic taste in your mouth or a dry mouth feeling sleepy or tired Serious side effects Serious side effects are rare, but you should call your doctor as soon as possible if you: lose your memory — this is called amnesia see or hear things that are not real — these are called hallucinations fall over, especially if you're elderly think things that are not true — these are called delusions feel low or sad — this could be a sign of depression Serious allergic reaction In rare cases, it's possible to have a serious allergic reaction anaphylaxis to zopiclone.

Information: You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme. Visit Yellow Card for further information. What to do about: a bitter or metallic taste in your mouth or a dry mouth — if this bothers you, try taking sips of water and keep some water by your bed at night.

Using a mouthwash before bedtime may also help. Choose one that's good for a dry mouth , as some can make a dry mouth worse. Do not drink any alcohol as this will make you feel more tired. If this does not help, talk to your doctor. Zopiclone and breastfeeding Zopiclone passes into breast milk in small amounts. If you have to take zopiclone, talk to your doctor or midwife about your feeding options. Certain medicines may increase the drowsy-making sedating effects of zopiclone.

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before starting on zopiclone if you take any of the following: medicines to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder medicines to treat depression medicines for epilepsy medicines to calm or reduce anxiety, or for sleep problems medicines for hay fever , rashes or other allergies that can make you sleepy sedative antihistamines, such as chlorphenamine or promethazine strong painkillers such as codeine , methadone, morphine , oxycodone , pethidine or tramadol erythromycin or clarithromycin antibiotics used to treat infections medicines used to treat fungal infections such as ketoconazole and itraconazole ritonavir a medicine used to treat HIV infections Mixing zopiclone with herbal remedies and supplements Do not take any herbal remedies that make you feel sleepy while taking zopiclone.

They can increase the drowsy-making sedating effects of your medicine. Important: Medicine safety Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you're taking any other medicines, including herbal medicines, vitamins or supplements. How does zopiclone work? GABA blocks transmission across nerves in the brain and has a calming effect. By boosting the effectiveness of GABA, zopiclone improves sleep.

How long will it take to work? Will I sleepwalk with zopiclone? If this happens to you, go back to your doctor for advice. How long will I take it for?

You'll usually be prescribed zopiclone for just 2 to 4 weeks. See your doctor again if these do not help. Can I get addicted to zopiclone? If you just take it for a few weeks, you're unlikely to become addicted to zopiclone. You may become dependent on it if you take it for longer than 4 weeks. Website by Element78 opens in new window. Close this dialog window Youngminds - fighting for young people's mental health.

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