Imovane (Zopiclone)

Zopiclone is a non‑benzodiazepine hypnotic used to treat sleep‑related disorders.

• Insomnia: helps patients fall asleep faster and stay asleep through the night.
• Sleep onset insomnia: reduces the latency to sleep onset in adults with difficulty initiating sleep.
• Sleep maintenance insomnia: decreases the number of nocturnal awakenings and improves overall sleep continuity.
• Short‑term insomnia: provides temporary relief for acute sleep disturbances.
• Shift‑work related insomnia: helps individuals adapt sleep when work schedules disrupt normal patterns.
• Transient stress‑induced insomnia: alleviates difficulty sleeping caused by acute stressors.

• Zopiclone acts as a positive allosteric modulator at the GABA‑A receptor complex. By binding to a distinct site on the receptor, it enhances the inhibitory effect of GABA, increasing chloride ion influx into neurons. This potentiation of GABAergic transmission leads to reduced neuronal excitability, producing sedative and hypnotic effects that facilitate sleep initiation and maintenance.

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness or excessive sleepiness.
• Metallic or bitter taste in the mouth.
• Dry mouth.
• Headache.
• Dizziness.
• Short‑term memory impairment.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or swelling.
• Severe depression or emergence of suicidal thoughts.
• Respiratory depression, especially when combined with other depressants.
• Complex sleep behaviours (e.g., sleepwalking, sleep‑driving).
• Hallucinations or psychotic symptoms.
• Persistent amnesia affecting daily activities.

Before prescribing Zopiclone, clinicians should consider the following precautions:

• Assess duration and cause of insomnia: limit use to short‑term therapy.
• Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants.
• Monitor for signs of dependence or tolerance.
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest period required.
• Contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Zopiclone may interact with several other medicines. Awareness of these interactions helps minimise risk.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Alcohol: additive CNS depression leading to profound sedation.
• Opioids or other strong CNS depressants: increased risk of respiratory depression.
• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole): may raise Zopiclone plasma levels.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, carbamazepine): may reduce efficacy.
• Antihistamines and certain antidepressants: can enhance sedative effects.
• Antiepileptic drugs: may alter seizure threshold when combined.