Zopiclone vs Zolpidem: Are They the Same or Different?

Sleeping well is important for our health and well-being, but many people struggle with insomnia, making it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep. For those who can’t find relief through lifestyle changes or natural remedies, medications like Zopiclone and Zolpidem are usually prescribed. 

Zopiclone and Zolpidem are both used for treating insomnia, but they’re not the same. In this blog, we’ll take a close look at their similarities and differences so you can decide which is best.

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• What Are Zopiclone and Zolpidem?

What Is Zopiclone?

Zopiclone is a prescription medication used to treat insomnia. It belongs to a group of drugs called Z-drugs, which are designed to help with sleep problems. Zopiclone works by acting on a chemical in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This chemical slows down brain activity, making it easier for you to relax and fall asleep.

How it works: Zopiclone increases the effects of GABA, which calms your nervous system.

How to take it:- Take Zopiclone right before going to bed. In case you awaken in the middle of the night, do not take the medicine. With a glass of water, you should swallow the pill whole. Avoid chewing or crushing it. Anytime is fine to take Zopiclone. It would help if you didn’t take zopiclone every day. Based on what your doctor told you, only take it when you think you really need it.

Common uses: It helps people who have trouble falling asleep, wake up frequently during the night, or wake up too early in the morning.

Brand names: In many countries, Zopiclone is sold under names like Imovane or Zimovane.

What Is Zolpidem?

Zolpidem is another popular sleep medication that also falls under the Z-drugs category. It is often sold under well-known brand names like Ambien and Stilnox. Like Zopiclone, Zolpidem works by affecting GABA receptors in the brain, helping to calm the nervous system and promote sleep. It is a nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic agent and is prescribed for short-term treatment, usually for 1 to 2 weeks or less.

• How it works: Zolpidem targets specific GABA receptors more selectively than Zopiclone, which can reduce certain side effects.
• Common uses: It’s particularly effective for people who have trouble falling asleep quickly. Some versions, like extended-release tablets, can also help with staying asleep longer.

• How to take it: As your doctor tells you, you should take zolpidem by mouth without food. Most people take it once a night. Because this drug works so quickly, you need to take it right before bed. It would be best if you didn’t take Zolpidem before, during, or after a meal because it won’t work as fast. 
• Brand names: Zolpidem is sold under names like Ambien, Stilnox, and Edluar.

2. Similarities Between Zopiclone and Zolpidem

Zopiclone and Zolpidem share several similarities, which can make them seem interchangeable at first glance:

Both Are Z-Drugs:

Zopiclone and Zolpidem belong to the same drug class, which was developed to treat insomnia with fewer side effects than older medications like benzodiazepines.

Short-Term Use:

Both drugs are recommended for short-term use only, usually for no longer than 2–4 weeks. Prolonged use can lead to dependence and tolerance.

Mechanism of Action:

They both work by enhancing the calming effects of GABA in the brain, which helps you relax and fall asleep.

Side Effects:

Common side effects for both include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, and a risk of next-day grogginess if taken late at night.

Prescription Only:

Both medications require a prescription and should be used under the guidance of a doctor.

• Differences Between Zopiclone and Zolpidem

While they share many similarities, Zopiclone and Zolpidem also have distinct differences:

Duration of Action

• Zopiclone:

Zopiclone lasts longer in the body, making it more effective for people who wake up frequently during the night.

• Zolpidem:

Zolpidem comes in different forms, including immediate-release tablets for falling asleep quickly and extended-release tablets for staying asleep longer.

Onset of Action

• Zopiclone:

Zopiclone generally takes about 30–60 minutes to work.

• Zolpidem:

Zolpidem acts faster, usually within 15–30 minutes, making it better for those who need quick relief to fall asleep.

Side Effects

• Zopiclone:

A common complaint with Zopiclone is a metallic or bitter taste in the mouth after taking it.

• Zolpidem:

Zolpidem has been associated with rare side effects like sleepwalking, sleep-eating, or even driving while not fully awake.

Regulatory Differences

The availability and branding of these drugs can vary depending on the country. For example, Zopiclone is more commonly prescribed in Europe, while Zolpidem is widely recognized in the United States under the brand name Ambien.

4. Which Sleep Aid Is Better for You?

Choosing between Zopiclone and Zolpidem depends on several factors:

Type of Insomnia

• If you have trouble falling asleep, Zolpidem’s immediate-release version may be more suitable.
• If you struggle with staying asleep, Zopiclone or Zolpidem’s extended-release form could be better.

Lifestyle and Routine

• Zopiclone’s longer duration may cause morning grogginess, so it might not be ideal for people with early morning commitments.
• Zolpidem’s shorter half-life reduces the risk of feeling drowsy the next day.

Health Conditions

People with liver or kidney issues may process these medications more slowly, increasing the risk of side effects. Always consult your doctor before taking either drug.

5.  Risks and Precautions

Dependency and Tolerance

Both Zopiclone and Zolpidem can cause dependency if used for too long. Over time, your body may develop a tolerance, making the medication less effective.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Stopping these medications suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, restlessness, and rebound insomnia.

Safety Tips

• Avoid alcohol while using these medications, as it can increase drowsiness and impair motor skills.
• Do not drive or operate heavy machinery after taking them.
• Follow your doctor’s prescribed dosage strictly.

• Alternatives to Zopiclone and Zolpidemn

If these medications are not suitable for you, there are other options:

Non-Medication Approaches

• Sleep hygiene: Maintain a consistent bedtime, avoid screens before bed, and create a comfortable sleep environment.
• Relaxation techniques: Try deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): A therapy that addresses negative thoughts and behaviors affecting sleep.

Other Medications

• Melatonin: A natural supplement to help regulate your sleep-wake cycle.
• Antihistamines: Over-the-counter options like diphenhydramine can be used occasionally but may cause grogginess.
• Prescription options: Medications like trazodone or low-dose doxepin may be alternatives for some individuals.

Natural Remedies

Herbal teas, magnesium supplements, and lifestyle changes like regular exercise can also promote better sleep.

Does it make sense to buy Zopiclone in Singapore?

If you need Zopiclone fast, you may be wondering if you can buy it online and have it sent to you immediately. Yes, a lot of online stores make it easy to buy Zopiclone 7.5mg in the United States, and they offer fast shipping choices like Express Shipping. But keep in mind that these choices might cost extra, so make sure you know the store’s shipping rules before you buy Zopiclone online USA via Singapore Post.

Conclusion

Both Zopiclone and Zolpidem can help you sleep, but they are not the same. Zopiclone is better for staying asleep because it lasts longer, while Zolpidem is better for going asleep quickly because it starts working faster. But both drugs have risks, like becoming dependent on them and having side effects, so they should only be used with a doctor’s guidance.

In the end, which of these medicines you choose will rely on your needs, health, and way of life. If you have trouble sleeping, you should talk to a doctor or nurse to find the best way to treat it.