Who Cannot Take Zopiclone? Important Safety Guidelines Before Use

Who Cannot Take Zopiclone? Important Safety Guidelines Before Use

Zopiclone is a widely prescribed medication for short-term treatment of insomnia, helping individuals fall asleep faster and stay asleep through the night. While it can be highly effective for many people, zopiclone is not suitable for everyone. Knowing who cannot take zopiclone is crucial to avoid serious health risks and ensure safe medication use.

In this guide, we’ll explore the conditions, age groups, and circumstances where zopiclone should be avoided — along with safer alternatives.

🔹 Understanding Zopiclone and Its Purpose

Zopiclone belongs to the non-benzodiazepine hypnotics class of medicines. It works by calming brain activity, allowing you to fall asleep and maintain deep, restorative rest.

You can learn more about how zopiclone works and available dosage options on our Zopiclone 7.5 mg page.

🔹 Who Should Not Take Zopiclone?

Not everyone is a suitable candidate for zopiclone treatment. According to NHS guidelines and clinical research, the following groups should avoid zopiclone unless specifically approved by a doctor.

1. People with Sleep Apnoea

Zopiclone relaxes the muscles, which can make breathing problems worse in those with sleep apnoea or other respiratory disorders.

2. Individuals with Severe Liver Problems

The liver metabolises zopiclone. People with liver failure or severe hepatic impairment may experience dangerous accumulation of the drug in the body.

3. People with Myasthenia Gravis

This rare muscle-weakening condition can be worsened by zopiclone, as it affects muscle tone and control.

4. Patients with Severe Breathing Difficulties

Those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or other serious lung problems should avoid zopiclone due to the risk of respiratory depression.

5. Individuals with a History of Drug or Alcohol Addiction

Zopiclone can be habit-forming. Those with a history of substance abuse are at greater risk of dependency and misuse.

6. People with Mental Health Disorders Involving Suicidal Thoughts

Sedative medications can sometimes intensify depression symptoms or suicidal thoughts, requiring careful monitoring.

🔹 Age and Zopiclone Safety

• Children and adolescents under 18 years – Not recommended due to safety and lack of research data.
• Elderly patients – More sensitive to side effects like confusion, dizziness, and falls. Lower doses are often advised.

🔹 Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Considerations

Zopiclone is not recommended during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby. It can also pass into breast milk, potentially affecting newborns. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, your doctor may suggest non-drug sleep strategies instead.

🔹 Drug Interactions: Medicines That May Cause Problems

Zopiclone should not be combined with:

• Other sedatives, including benzodiazepines and certain antihistamines
• Strong painkillers such as opioids (codeine, morphine, tramadol)
• Alcohol (increases sedation and risk of overdose) – see our detailed guide on Zopiclone and Alcohol

🔹 Safer Alternatives to Zopiclone

If you fall into any of the above groups, your healthcare provider may recommend:

• Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)
• Natural sleep aids such as melatonin
• Lifestyle adjustments – exercise, reduced caffeine, consistent sleep schedule

🔹 Final Thoughts

Zopiclone can be an effective short-term solution for insomnia — but it is not safe for everyone. If you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant, or have a history of substance misuse, you should avoid zopiclone or take it only under strict medical supervision.

Before starting zopiclone, always consult a qualified healthcare professional. Never self-medicate or buy without a prescription from a trusted source.

For more information about safe use, dosing, and side effects, visit our full Buy Zopiclone Online product range.

External Reference:

• NHS – Who can and cannot take zopiclone