Zopiclone Side Effects

Zopiclone is a medication used to manage insomnia. According to Drugs.com, zopiclone belongs to a category of drugs called central nervous system depressants, and it works to help you sleep better throughout the night. Typically, you will take 5 to 7.5 mg of zoplicone at bedtime, says the Mayo Clinic. Your doctor will adjust your dosage based on your age and medication strength.

Woman with medication suffering with insomnia. (Image: yanyong/iStock/Getty Images)

Common Side Effects

According to Drugs.com, zopiclone's common side effects include mood changes, clumsiness, confusion, lack of coordination, anxiety and restlessness. It can cause dizziness, weight loss, a poor appetite, indigestion, heartburn, constipation, trouble sleeping and stomach pain. Zopiclone's can cause dry mouth and weight loss. You should tell your doctor whether these symptoms last for 3 to 5 days.

Serious Side Effects

The Mayo Clinic says that zopiclone can cause chest tightness, difficulty breathing, wheezing, aggressiveness, changes in your behavior, severe drowsiness, aggressiveness and a skin rash. It can cause wheezing, memory problems, tachycardia (fast heartbeat), vomiting, shakiness, increased saliva production, convulsions and nervousness. Zopiclone can cause irritability, diaphoresis (sweating), restlessness and muscle cramps… Zopiclone may cause bad breath, a bitter taste in your mouth and even your tongue may have a coated appearance. Do not suddenly discontinue zopiclone without your doctor's supervision. It may lead to such withdrawal side effects as nausea, vomiting, anxiety, nervousness, irritability, convulsions and tremors. Call your doctor immediately when these side effects occur.

Additional Concerns

Avoid zoplicone if you have a hypersensitivity to it. You may develop hives, trouble breathing and swelling (edema) of your face, lips, tongue or face.

You should avoid combining zopiclone with alcohol. It can increase the aforementioned side effects.

The Mayo Clinic says that you should avoid taking zopiclone with sedatives, tranquilizers, narcotics, barbituates, muscle relaxants or anesthetics. The combination can cause the aforementioned side effects.