Zopiclone 7.5mg Tablet

Zopiclone 7.5mg Tablet – Generic Zimovane / Imovane | Short-Term Insomnia Treatment

Reviewed by a licensed physician | Last updated: April 2026 Prescription required | Controlled drug | Short-term use only — maximum 4 weeks

What It Is

Zopiclone 7.5mg is an oral non-benzodiazepine hypnotic (Z-drug) sleeping tablet — the active molecule in Zimovane® (most prescribed sleeping tablet in the UK) and Imovane® (global brand). It is structurally distinct from benzodiazepines but acts on the same GABA-A receptors, producing sedation with a slightly cleaner next-day profile than older benzodiazepine sleeping pills.

Important — USA patients: Zopiclone is not FDA-approved in the United States. The closest US-approved equivalent is zolpidem (Ambien). Many US patients specifically seek zopiclone because they find it more effective or better tolerated than zolpidem. Personal importation of a limited supply for personal use is permitted under FDA personal import provisions. Consult your physician before use.

Available brands include: Zimovane (UK), Imovane (Canada, Europe, Middle East), Zopicon (India), Zopisign (India), Zopifresh (India).

How It Works

Zopiclone binds to GABA-A receptors in the brain, enhancing the action of GABA — the brain’s main inhibitory neurotransmitter. This slows neuronal activity, producing sedation, muscle relaxation, and sleep induction. Onset: 30–60 minutes. Duration: 6–8 hours of sleep.

Zopiclone vs Benzodiazepines: Zopiclone is more selective for sleep-related GABA-A receptor subtypes than classic benzodiazepines — producing less residual daytime sedation and anxiety at standard doses, though dependence risk remains if used beyond 4 weeks.

The metallic taste: A bitter or metallic taste the morning after is the most commonly reported effect — completely harmless. Drinking water or chewing sugar-free gum resolves it within minutes.

Dosage

Take as a single dose at bedtime. Do not take a second dose the same night. Ensure 7–8 hours of sleep time before you need to be active — taking it with less time risks next-day drowsiness. The 7.5mg tablet has a score line — can be split to 3.75mg if required.

Do not take with alcohol — dangerous CNS depression. Do not drive the morning after if drowsy.

Who Should Not Use It

Do not use if: you have sleep apnoea — respiratory depression risk; myasthenia gravis — worsens muscle weakness; severe liver disease; hypersensitivity to zopiclone; history of drug or alcohol dependence — high misuse risk; pregnant or breastfeeding. Not for use in patients under 18 years.

Side Effects

Common: Bitter or metallic taste in the mouth (most reported effect — harmless). Dry mouth. Daytime drowsiness if less than 7–8 hours of sleep. Dizziness.

Important: Rebound insomnia and anxiety can occur if stopped suddenly after more than 2 weeks. Always taper dose gradually when stopping. Dependence can develop — use strictly short-term as prescribed.

Serious — seek medical attention for: Sleepwalking or complex sleep behaviours (driving, eating while asleep — rare but reported). Signs of allergic reaction. Respiratory depression if taken with opioids or alcohol.

FAQ

Is zopiclone the same as Zimovane? Yes — Zimovane contains zopiclone 7.5mg. Generic tablets contain the same active substance at the same strength and dose.

Why does zopiclone leave a bitter taste? A metallic or bitter taste the morning after is zopiclone’s most commonly reported effect — it affects approximately 30% of users and is completely harmless. It clears within minutes of waking. Drinking water or chewing gum helps.

Can I buy zopiclone in the USA? Zopiclone is not FDA-approved in the USA. It is not available at US pharmacies. US patients may personally import a limited supply under FDA personal import provisions. This should be discussed with a physician first.

How long can I take zopiclone? Maximum 2–4 weeks including the tapering period. Beyond 4 weeks significantly increases dependence risk. It is not for long-term use.

Is zopiclone better than Ambien (zolpidem)? Both are Z-drugs with similar mechanisms. Zopiclone has a longer half-life (5–6 hours vs 2–3 hours for standard zolpidem), which some patients find provides better sleep maintenance. Individual responses vary — neither is universally superior.

References

1.Zopiclone — Drugs.com (Medically reviewed March 25, 2025) https://www.drugs.com/zopiclone.html
2.Zopiclone (Zimovane/Imovane) — MedsForLess UK (March 2026) https://www.medsforless.co.uk/zopiclone-accord-actavis-brand/
3.Zopiclone — NHS Clinical Knowledge Summaries (UK) https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/insomnia/prescribing-information/zopiclone/