You’re here because you’re taking a proactive step towards understanding more about Zopiclone, a medication that has probably been prescribed to aid your sleep. We commend you for taking the initiative to gather information about the potential side effects associated with taking Zopiclone.
Here at Addiction Rehab, we have years of specialist experience providing addiction care for patients who abuse Zopiclone. This up-close experience, alongside successful recovery cases, provides the perfect backdrop to explain what to expect when taking Zopiclone.
Zopiclone is a medication primarily used to treat insomnia and for sleep disorders. It belongs to a class of drugs known as hypnotics or sedative-hypnotics. It helps you fall asleep faster and maintain a more prolonged sleep, enhancing the quality of your rest.
However, like any medication, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects, especially given its reputation for possible addiction and dependence.
What the Side Effects of Zopiclone Abuse Look Like
Let’s delve into Zopiclone’s potential side effects and how to manage them effectively.
Drowsiness and Dizziness
Zopiclone can cause drowsiness and dizziness, primarily due to its effect on the central nervous system. This can lead to a feeling of extreme tiredness or difficulty in maintaining balance.
For instance, imagine waking up after taking Zopiclone and feeling groggy or disoriented, making it challenging to start your day. Dizziness can also pose a risk of falls, especially among the elderly, leading to potential injuries.
Gastrointestinal Upset
Some users experience gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort when taking Zopiclone.
Its chemical structure means Zopiclone can irritate the stomach lining, causing discomfort or nausea and affecting your overall well-being. Picture dealing with nausea as a side effect, making daily activities or even eating a challenge due to an upset stomach.
Changes in Taste
Zopiclone can cause a metallic or bitter taste in your mouth. This medication changes the way taste buds send signals to the brain. This change in the signalling mechanism can lead to an abnormal taste sensation, such as a metallic or bitter taste.
Overall, a metallic taste in your mouth may seem like a minor side effect, but it can be quite bothersome. It means your favourite meals will suddenly start to taste different. And when you have to deal with that over time, it can get incredibly frustrating.
Memory and Cognitive Impairment
Another significant side effect includes impaired memory or cognitive function. Some users may experience memory lapses or have difficulty focusing or making decisions. ‘
Consider the potential challenges of struggling with forgetfulness or difficulty concentrating on your daily activities due to the effects of the medication.
Mood Changes and Depression
Zopiclone might lead to mood changes, including feelings of sadness or depression. This could exacerbate existing mental health conditions or lead to the development of new ones. It’s crucial to recognize the emotional toll the medication can take, potentially impacting your mental health.
Respiratory Issues
In rare cases, Zopiclone can cause respiratory issues, leading to difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. This can be a severe and potentially dangerous side effect, especially if you have any pre-existing respiratory conditions.
Dependence and Withdrawal
One of the most concerning side effects is the potential for dependence on Zopiclone. Using it for an extended period or in higher doses can lead to tolerance and dependence.
Similarly, abruptly stopping the medication can result in withdrawal symptoms such as rebound insomnia, anxiety, or even seizures.
Related Article: What is Zopiclone?
Managing Zopiclone Usage and the Associated Side Effects
Now, let’s focus on strategies to navigate Zopiclone usage effectively:
Follow Prescribed Dosage
Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, avoiding self-medication or altering doses without consulting your healthcare provider.
Following the recommended dosage helps prevent negative reactions to taking Zopiclone. It minimizes the risk of developing tolerance or Zopiclone addiction and ensures the medication’s effectiveness without heightening potential side effects or health risks.
Short-term Use
Zopiclone is recommended for short-term use, ideally for 2-4 weeks. Avoid prolonged use to minimize the risk of dependence and tolerance.
Short-term use reduces the risk of Zopiclone addiction and adverse effects. It also promotes the medication’s ability to improve your sleep when needed.
Regular Reviews
Regularly review your treatment with your healthcare provider. Assess the ongoing need for the medication and discuss alternatives for managing sleep.
Minimize Alcohol
Avoid consuming alcohol while on Zopiclone, as it can exacerbate side effects. Combining alcohol with Zopiclone intensifies its sedative effects, causing severe drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination.
Both substances depress the central nervous system, heightening the risk of respiratory depression, leading to difficulty in breathing and potential loss of consciousness. This interaction magnifies the side effects of both substances, posing severe health risks and increasing the likelihood of accidents or injury.
Gradual Discontinuation
When it’s time to stop taking Zopiclone, do so gradually under medical supervision to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
Stopping Zopiclone usage abruptly can trigger rebound insomnia, heightened anxiety, and other withdrawal effects due to the body’s dependency on the medication. Instead, gradual discontinuation, which involves reduced dosage over time, gives your body time to adjust normally.
By extension, it minimizes the effects of withdrawal symptoms and equals a smoother transition.
Monitor and Report Side Effects
Keep track of any side effects and report them to your healthcare provider promptly.
Promptly identifying and reporting adverse reactions to healthcare providers allows for timely intervention and adjustment in treatment.
This proactive approach helps prevent complications, ensuring you get medical care to mitigate potential risks. Early detection and reporting facilitate the safe use of Zopiclone. It allows for timely adjustments, treatment modifications, or alternative strategies to manage or alleviate side effects.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Incorporate healthy sleep hygiene practices like a consistent sleep schedule, a calming bedtime routine, and a comfortable sleep environment to complement Zopiclone’s effects.
With Zopiclone, Always Involve Professional Help
Sleep is one of the most fundamental human needs. That’s why dependence and abuse are one of the top side effects of taking Zopiclone. Alongside, you may also deal with constant grogginess and possible respiratory issues.
Above, we’ve provided our specialist guide of practices to manage the side effects of Zopiclone. By following the prescribed guidelines and adopting healthy lifestyle practices, you can mitigate the risks associated with this medication and improve the quality of your sleep without compromising your overall health and well-being.
Where you need professional guidance with taking Zopiclone, Addiction Rehab Toronto is here to help you. We offer free phone consultations regarding Zopiclone use, side effects and personalized addiction. Call 1-855-787-2424 to get the attention you need.
