Recent studies indicate that approximately 1 in 10 adults in Europe have chronic insomnia. To address this widespread issue, various pharmacological treatments are available, one of which is Zopiclone. Zopiclone is recognised for its effectiveness in the short-term management of insomnia. However, it’s important to be aware that while Zopiclone can be an effective treatment option, there is a potential for dependency if used over an extended period.
What is Zopiclone?
Zopiclone is a prescription medication used to treat insomnia, which is difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. It belongs to a class of drugs known as sedative-hypnotics. Zopiclone works by acting on the brain to produce a calming effect, helping users fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
Zopiclone is classed as a non-benzodiazepine medication used to treat insomnia. This means that they act on the same brain receptors as benzodiazepines but have different chemical structures and fewer side effects than traditional benzodiazepines.
Does Zopiclone have the potential to be addictive?
While Zopiclone is designed to be a safer alternative to traditional benzodiazepines, there are concerns regarding its potential for addiction. Below are reasons why Zopiclone might have addictive potential:
How the Zopiclone works
Zopiclone affects the brain by interacting with GABA receptors, similar to how some sleeping pills work, but it’s structurally different. It boosts the calming effect of GABA in the brain, leading to relaxation and helping with sleep. This calming effect can also make Zopiclone addictive, as people might start relying on it for sleep or to reduce anxiety, potentially leading to dependence.
Concerns over tolerance building
Over time, with consistent and long-term use, the body gets used to Zopiclone, and people might find they need more of it to get the same sleep-inducing effect. This increasing need is a key sign of potential addiction, as it can lead to taking higher doses and facing more side effects, making it a cycle that’s hard to break.
Experiencing withdrawal
If someone regularly taking Zopiclone suddenly stops, they might face withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, shakes, sweating, and in severe cases, seizures. These symptoms are clear indicators of physical dependence on Zopiclone, emphasising its potential for addiction. Some people may also try their best to avoid the withdrawal symptoms altogether by continuing to take Zopiclone. This decision can deepen the addiction cycle.
Psychological dependence
People can become mentally dependent on Zopiclone, thinking they can’t sleep without it. This belief can keep them using Zopiclone even when it’s no longer needed, fueling a cycle of addiction despite knowing the negative impacts.
Rebound insomnia
When stopping Zopiclone after long-term use, sleep problems can worsen, a phenomenon known as rebound insomnia. This can trap people in a cycle where they feel forced to keep taking Zopiclone to avoid sleeplessness, increasing the risk of dependency. Rebound insomnia not only shows how addictive Zopiclone can be but also makes quitting challenging, as the fear of not being able to sleep can deter people from stopping.
What are the signs of Zopiclone addiction?
Recognising the signs of Zopiclone addiction involves observing changes in physical health, psychological state and behaviour.
Physical signs
- Tolerance: An increased dose of Zopiclone is needed to achieve the same sedative effects.
- Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing symptoms like sweating, tremors, anxiety, heart palpitations and seizures when not taking the drug.
- Changes in sleep patterns: Despite its use for insomnia, addiction may lead to worsened sleep quality or altered sleep patterns.
- Physical dependence: Experiencing physical discomfort or illness when trying to quit or reduce usage.
Psychological signs
- Cravings: A strong desire or urge to use Zopiclone.
- Anxiety and depression: Increased symptoms of anxiety or depression, possibly due to the drug’s effects on brain chemistry.
- Mood swings: Experiencing significant and rapid changes in mood.
- Reduced interest: Losing interest in activities or hobbies that were once enjoyable.
Behavioural signs
- Increased use: Taking Zopiclone more frequently or in higher doses than prescribed.
- Doctor shopping: Visiting multiple doctors to obtain more prescriptions (especially in countries where healthcare is privatised)
- Neglecting responsibilities: Ignoring work, school or family obligations.
- Social withdrawal: Isolating from friends and family, often to hide drug use.
- Continued use despite harm: Using Zopiclone despite knowing it’s causing physical or psychological problems.
- Secrecy and deception: Being secretive or lying about the amount of drug taken.
Addiction to Zopiclone or any substance is a serious condition that requires professional treatment. If you or someone you know is showing signs of addiction, it’s important to seek help from a healthcare professional who can provide guidance on the best course of treatment.
Can you overdose on Zopiclone?
A Zopiclone overdose occurs when someone takes more than the recommended dose, and the severity can vary depending on the amount taken and individual factors like body weight, tolerance to the drug and concurrent use of other substances.
Symptoms of a Zopiclone overdose can include:
- Excessive drowsiness
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- Slowed or difficult breathing
- Coma
- And in severe cases, it can be fatal.
If you notice these signs and symptoms in yourself or anyone else you know who is taking Zopiclone, it’s vital to contact emergency medical services for further advice and guidance.
How can I tell if I have a Zopiclone addiction?
When using sleeping pills like Zopiclone, it’s crucial to remember that just because a doctor has prescribed a medication doesn’t mean it’s completely harmless. Monitoring your usage is key to ensuring that you don’t develop a dependency or addiction. Start by asking yourself the following questions:
- Do I find myself taking more Zopiclone than prescribed because the usual dose no longer seems effective?
- Have I ever felt a strong urge or compulsion to take Zopiclone, even when I’m not planning to go to sleep?
- Do I continue to use Zopiclone despite experiencing negative consequences, such as memory issues, daytime drowsiness or impaired coordination?
- Am I secretive or dishonest with others about my use of Zopiclone, including hiding pills or lying about how much I take?
- Have I tried to stop or reduce my use of Zopiclone but found myself unable to do so?
- Do I spend a significant amount of time obtaining, using or recovering from the effects of Zopiclone?
- Have I noticed a decrease in my interest in social, occupational or recreational activities since starting Zopiclone, preferring to use the drug instead?
If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, it might be time to reassess your use of Zopiclone and consider seeking advice from a healthcare professional to avoid potential dependency or addiction issues.
Getting help for a Zopiclone addiction
Addressing a Zopiclone addiction involves a comprehensive approach, which includes detoxification, rehabilitation and aftercare. Each of these stages is crucial in the journey towards recovery, as they offer the chance to tackle the physical, psychological and emotional facets of addiction. Here’s a general outline of what each step entails:
Zopiclone detox
The first step in overcoming Zopiclone addiction is detoxification, which involves the body eliminating the drug. Medical professionals should ideally supervise this process due to potential withdrawal symptoms that can be uncomfortable and, in some instances, life-threatening. Medical detox can offer medications and therapies to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, ensuring the patient’s safety and comfort.
Zopiclone rehab
After detox, rehab provides comprehensive treatment to address the psychological aspects of addiction. Rehab programs can be inpatient (residential) or outpatient, depending on your needs, addiction severity and life circumstances. Rehabilitation typically involves a combination of therapies, including:
- Individual counselling: To explore personal issues contributing to addiction and develop coping strategies.
- Group therapy: Offers support from peers going through similar experiences.
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): Aims to change harmful patterns of thinking and behaviour.
- Family therapy: Can help repair and improve family dynamics and support systems.
Aftercare
Aftercare is essential for maintaining sobriety after completing a rehab program. It involves ongoing support to prevent relapse and can include support groups as well as continued therapy.
The next steps
Are you or a loved one struggling with Zopiclone addiction? Don’t let this battle be fought alone. Reach out to a rehab centre today. Professional help can guide you towards recovery, offering personalised treatment plans, support groups and the care you need to regain control of your life. Start your journey towards a healthier, happier future today.
Call our admissions line 24 hours a day to get help.