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Insight Horizon Media

Is zolpidem and zopiclone the same thing?

Author

Sarah Cherry

Published Feb 10, 2026

Is zolpidem and zopiclone the same thing?

Zolpidem (ZOL) and zopiclone (ZPC) are non-benzodiazepine hypnotics, with unique effects on sleep architecture compared with conventional benzodiazepines. The two compounds have different profiles in action to two major subtypes of the GABA-A receptors, therefore different effects on sleep structure may be expected.

Why is zopiclone banned?

On April 4, 2005, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration listed zopiclone under schedule IV, due to evidence that the drug has addictive properties similar to benzodiazepines.

Is zopiclone a good sleeping pill?

Zopiclone is a type of sleeping pill that can be taken to treat bad bouts of insomnia. It helps you fall asleep more quickly, and also helps stop you waking up during the night.

Which is stronger zolpidem or zopiclone?

In conclusion, zolpidem was at least as effective as zopiclone, showed significantly less rebound on discontinuation and was better tolerated.

What is the strongest sedative pill?

Rohypnol (flunitrazepam) is a short-acting benzodiazepine that is 10 times stronger than Valium.

Which is stronger zopiclone or zolpidem?

What is the maximum zopiclone you can take?

Although zopiclone was well tolerated at 3.75 mg and 7.5 mg, an increase in side-effects occurred at 11.25 mg and 15 mg, which favours the use of 7.5 mg zopiclone as the optimum dose for most patients, although certain patients may benefit from a higher dose of the drug when well tolerated.

What happens if you stay awake on zopiclone?

Although people using the drug to aid sleep generally do not experience this taste until after they wake up, people who stay awake after using zopiclone experience the metallic taste during this semi-conscious state.

Is zolpidem stronger than zopiclone?

What is the drug you will give for a elderly patient with difficulty sleeping?

Temazepam is the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepine for insomnia. Therefore, based on current utilization patterns, the following section will review pertinent data on temazepam, trazodone, zolpidem, and the newest nonbenzodiazepine—zaleplon—for the treatment of insomnia in elderly patients.