Zopiclone

Zopiclone is commonly prescribed for the short term treatment of insomnia. Its specific effects are only designed to help with sleep-related deprivation, unlike other drugs with sedative properties which often have multipurpose uses.

Zopiclone and Zolpidem are generally considered to be less harmful and less addictive than other prescription drugs that serve a similar purpose. Nevertheless, Z drugs hold a moderate potential for abuse and can become lethal when combined with other depressive medications or alcohol.

According to the Prescribed Medicines Review conducted by Public Health England, 100,00 patients were found to be in receipt of a continuous repeat prescription for a Z drug from 2015 to 2018 in England (1) 

Uses
Zopiclone is a sedative-hypnotic medication prescribed for the treatment of insomnia.  Ideally not be prescribed for any longer than a period of 14 consecutive days. Longer than this, there is a high chance of tolerance and dependence developing. 

Once a tolerance to a certain dosage of the medication has occurred, its effects become useless unless the dosage or frequency is increased.

The drug is sold under different manufacturing brand and trade names, most commonly including generic variations of Zopiclone (including Zimovane, Zalepon, Imovane, Zolpidem and Ambien)

Zopiclone comes in two different strengths 3.75 mg and 7.5mg. Although generic and counterfeit versions may have varying dosages and potency.

Generic brands come in capsule or tablet form. They are also available in a liquid form for those that struggle to swallow pills.

When it comes to prescribing medications for sleep issues,  Zopiclone and Zolpidem tend to be favoured over benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are notoriously addictive and difficult to stop. 

Benzodiazepine withdraw is one of the most dangerous detoxes a person can undergo and has a high risk of life-threatening complications.