Frequently Asked Questions
Find straightforward answers about Zopiclone, short-term insomnia treatment, responsible medicine use and support from Durham Medical.
Zopiclone is a prescription-only medicine in the UK intended for short-term treatment of insomnia. Information on this page is general guidance and does not replace advice from your GP, pharmacist or prescriber.
Understanding Zopiclone
What is Zopiclone used for?
Zopiclone is a prescription-only sleeping medicine used for the short-term treatment of insomnia. A healthcare professional may consider it when difficulty falling asleep, repeated waking or waking too early is significantly affecting everyday life.
How quickly does Zopiclone start working?
Zopiclone generally begins working within approximately 30 to 60 minutes. It is normally taken shortly before bedtime and only according to the instructions provided by your prescriber.
Is Zopiclone intended for long-term insomnia?
Zopiclone is primarily intended for short-term use. Treatment commonly lasts from a few days to a few weeks, because longer use can increase the risk of tolerance, dependence and withdrawal symptoms.
Does everyone with insomnia need sleeping tablets?
No. Insomnia can have many causes, and medication is only one possible approach. Improving sleep habits, addressing stress or underlying health problems and cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia may also form part of treatment.
How is the appropriate Zopiclone dose decided?
The appropriate dose depends on individual factors such as age, health, other medicines and the nature of the sleep problem. Follow the dose prescribed for you and do not increase or change it yourself.
Using Zopiclone Safely
Can I drink alcohol while taking Zopiclone?
Alcohol should be avoided while taking Zopiclone. Combining alcohol with a sedating medicine can increase drowsiness and other potentially dangerous effects.
What are the common side effects of Zopiclone?
Commonly reported effects include a bitter or metallic taste, dry mouth and feeling tired, sleepy or less alert the following day. Speak with a pharmacist or doctor if side effects are persistent or troublesome.
Can Zopiclone cause dependence?
Yes. Dependence can occur, particularly when Zopiclone is used for longer than recommended or differently from the prescribed instructions. This is one reason it is normally prescribed for a limited period.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
If you forget your bedtime dose, NHS guidance advises skipping the missed dose and taking the next prescribed dose at the usual time the following night. Do not take two doses to make up for one that was missed.
What should I do if I take too much Zopiclone?
Taking more than the prescribed dose can be dangerous. Seek urgent medical advice if this happens. In the UK, NHS 111 can provide urgent guidance, while severe symptoms require emergency medical attention.
Can I drive after taking Zopiclone?
Zopiclone can affect alertness, coordination and reaction time. Do not drive, cycle or operate machinery if you feel sleepy, dazed or less alert. Always follow the instructions provided with your medicine.
Can I take Zopiclone with other medicines?
Some medicines can interact with Zopiclone or increase its sedating effects. Tell your prescriber or pharmacist about prescription medicines, non-prescription medicines and supplements you currently use.
Should I suddenly stop Zopiclone after regular use?
Do not suddenly stop regular Zopiclone treatment without professional advice. Withdrawal symptoms and rebound insomnia can occur, particularly after longer use. Your doctor may recommend reducing the medicine gradually.
Website, Orders & Help
Is my personal information kept private?
Personal information should be handled securely and only for appropriate purposes connected with your enquiry or service. Please review the Durham Medical Privacy Policy for full details about how information is collected, used and protected.
Where can I check delivery information?
Current delivery options, charges and estimated timescales should be shown during checkout or on the Durham Medical delivery information page. Delivery times may vary depending on the service selected and courier conditions.
What should I do if my tracking has not updated?
Courier tracking does not always update immediately after dispatch. Allow time for the first scan to appear. If tracking remains unchanged for an unusual period, contact customer support with your order number.
How can I contact Durham Medical about an order?
Email support@durham-medical.co.uk and include your order number where possible. This helps the support team identify your order more quickly.
Where should I ask a medical question?
General customer support should not replace medical advice. Questions about whether a medicine is suitable for you, side effects, interactions or dosage should be discussed with a GP, pharmacist or appropriately qualified prescriber.
Can’t Find the Answer You Need?
Contact Durham Medical customer support and include your order number if your question relates to an existing order.

