Zopiclone Vs Zolpidem

These medications differ molecularly but come from the same family of non-benzodiazepine medications (cyclopyrrolones, Z-drugs or sedative hypnotics). They are both primarily used in treatments for the same condition, insomnia. Most people experience sleeping problems at least once in their lives but they usually go away by themselves. Insomnia is a condition which affects 10-30% of adults around the world. This percentage increases when looking at women and the elderly. With women at 40% more risk of experiencing symptoms and 50% of older adults consulting with their doctors.

Both of these medications were manufactured by companies which are now subsidiaries of the French pharmaceutical conglomerate; Sanofi-Aventis. Zolpidem is widely known globally by the medications brand name, Ambien. The brand name for Zopiclone; Imovane, is also well known. As the original patent for Zopiclone and other Z-drugs has expired, these medications can be found under many different names. On this page, we will study the key differences and similarities of these medications to answer the question; 'is zolpidem the same as zopiclone?'.

Is There a Difference Between Zopiclone and Zolpidem?

As these medications belong in the same classifications of medicine, they are very similar in all respects. It can be difficult to find the difference between zolpidem and zopiclone as their mechanisms of action and effects are very similar. Both of these medications are prescribed in short-term treatments for different types of insomnia. There are 3 different groups or categories of insomnia linked to the term of sleep problems experienced in a patient, those are;

• Transient (less than a month)
• Short term (between a month and 6 months)
• Chronic (6 or more months)

The minor differences between these medications are only apparent in their dose forms, side effects and durations of action. Where zopiclone tablets come in pill sizes of 3.75mg and 7.5mg and the effects can last 8-9 hours, the other comes in 5mg or 10mg and have a duration of around 6 hours. These durations can be dependent on a patients age, gender and overall health.

How to Take Zolpidem or Zopiclone?

Despite the dosage forms being different with both medications, the instructions which are given by doctors are nearly the same. Tablets should never be chewed, crushed or dissolved as this can make the medications release almost instant, which can put a user at risk. Pills, or fractions of them, should be swallowed whole for safety reasons. It is important before a patient takes these medications that they are prepared for sleep as the effects can impair them from carrying out tasks.

One tablet should be taken with water, before retiring to bed. These medications can be taken with or without food, but not on a full stomach. A reduced dosage amount may be instructed by a doctor if a patient is elderly, has never taken medications of this kind before, or has a history of kidney or liver problems. As always, never begin taking any medication without giving a doctor prior notice beforehand. Always read the individual patient information leaflet of each of these medications for their specific dosage and instructions.

Safety Profile: Zolpidem vs Zopiclone

Both of these medications are widely prescribed by doctors around the world to help patients recover from insomnia. There is a reason why these medications are licenced for use; they have been proven to be safe and effective when used correctly. The Office of Generic Drugs, which is a branch of the FDA, has tested both medications and their generic brands to ensure they are all the same ingredients and have the same effects. As they have similar effects and come from the same families of medicine, the risks are also very similar.

People who should be cautious when taking this medication are;

• Children under the age of 18
• People who suffer from sleep apnoea
• Those with severe liver or kidney problems
• Patients with a history of substance abuse
• People with a history of alcoholism or substance abuse

When it comes to choosing between zopiclone vs ambien, it can be down to a patients personal preference and experience.

Do Zopiclone or Zolpidem Have Side Effects

When comparing zolpidem vs zopiclone, in terms of side effects, there are not many differences. With Zopiclone, the side effect of a bitter or metallic taste is significantly more reported by patients in the morning after sleeping under the effects of the medication. This was reported in as many as 40% of patients after taking zopiclone sleeping pills and only 5.8% of patients who took zolpidem tablets. The common side effects which were experienced by patients on both medications are; forgetfulness, feelings of depression, dizziness and fatigue.

Feelings of tiredness in the morning after taking Zopiclone are normal and should subside within 8-10 hours after the medication has been taken. More severe side effects may include; a reduction in motor function, memory problems, delusions or hallucinations. Always follow the instructions of a doctor when taking any new medication, including Zopiclone, to reduce the risks of adverse reactions and side effects. For more information on side effects refer to the specific patient information leaflet of each medication.

The Benefits of Changing from Zopiclone to Zolpidem

These medications are mostly prescribed for short-term treatments of insomnia. The treatments using Zopiclone and other Z-drugs normally last 2-4 weeks and should never exceed the 4-week treatment schedule. Some patients suffer from chronic insomnia relating to past traumas or underlying health conditions. These patients may need to be medicated daily in order to get enough sleep. When taking these medications for a long period of time, the risks of side effects and withdrawal increase. However, there are ways to help prevent this.

Patients showed fewer risks when changing between ambien vs zopiclone every 28 days. By following a treatment plan of 4 weeks and including a tapering-off period towards the end of the plan, then changing to a different medication. Patients reduced the risks of any adverse effects. Also including sleep hygiene practices decreased the risks further.

Restore your sleep schedule with zolpidem sleeping tablets.

Last Reviewed: 24th July 2024
Next Review Due: August 2025