Zopiclone Withdrawal Symptoms: What to Expect

Zopiclone is an undercover drug that helps as a sedative namely in the management of insomnia and other sleeping disorders. This is good for short-term relief, but over time people become dependent on these drugs, become addicted to them, and withdraw when taken away. Understanding the nature of zopiclone withdrawal symptoms.

What is Zopiclone?

Zopiclone belongs to the class of benzodiazepine receptor agonists that have the therapeutic function of assistants in sleep management. Chemically, it falls under the non-benzodiazepine class of sleep aids referred to as the ‘Z drugs’. 

Anxiolytic and sedative due to the potentiation of Gabaa-reaffirmed inhibitory neurotrans cognition zopiclone facilitates sleep by increasing the action of gamma-aminobutyric acid that slows the activity of the nervous system. 

Zopiclone is very efficient in the short-term treatment of insomnia but when one depends on it they develop tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms when they/load/stop or reduce taking the drug.

How Zopiclone Addictions Form

Prolonged Use

Zopiclone is licensed for the short-term treatment of insomnia (typically 2–4 weeks). That is why one should not use a patient and any medication with it for an extended period as the body becomes dependent on the compound.

Tolerance Development

They often may get help to the first level and take more of the drug to have the same effect as they wanted the first time around.

Psychological Dependence

A number of users form psychological dependence on Zopiclone and they come to think they cannot sleep without it. This is because they are afraid of not being able to fall asleep once more due to insomnia in the?

In continuation, the usage of drugs continues, and this makes people fall prey of their fear of insomnia.

Recreational Use

Some people who take Zopiclone will do so to induce a state of sleepiness or to experience a ‘high’, and such people develop an addiction to the drug.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Zopiclone Addiction

Increased Dosage: Consuming too much Zopiclone to feel the effects that are to be felt.

Cravings: Persistent desire to take Zopiclone despite not needing the sleep-inducing medicine.

Failed Attempts to Quit: Several unsuccessful attempts to discourage or cut down the practices.

Withdrawal Symptoms: Symptoms that develop while off the drug they include:

Neglecting Responsibilities: Zopiclone consumption was made more of a priority than work, family, friends, or others.

Doctor Shopping: Getting more prescriptions from multiple healthcare providers.

Zopiclone Withdrawal Symptoms

Each time a person decides to quit taking Zopiclone, his or her body feels the effects, resulting in withdrawal symptoms. Such symptoms can be mild or severe depending on the degree and period of use of the substance in question.

Physical Symptoms

  • Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns
  • Headaches
  • Muscle pain or cramps
  • Fatigue
  • Sweating
  • Nausea or vomiting

Psychological Symptoms

  • Anxiety or panic attacks
  • Irritability or mood swings
  • Restlessness
  • Depression
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Hallucinations (in severe cases)

Rebound Insomnia

Such a withdrawal symptom, rebound insomnia is known as worse sleep problems than the underlying condition, which helps with Zopiclone. Because of this, it can take several days or weeks for the objective horizon of the self to be disrupted.

They usually appear around 24 – 48 hours after stopping the medication and might last one to two weeks, although some of the psychological withdrawal symptoms may persist for longer times.

Zopiclone Withdrawal Treatment

Zopiclone Withdrawal Treatment

Gradual Tapering

Zopiclone withdrawal symptoms tend to develop when the drug is suddenly stopped. Transitioning is easier when the dose is gradually reduced with guidance from the doctor and also reduces discomfort.

Medical Detox

For instance, one undergoing severe addiction should opt for a medically managed detox program since they will be withdrawn under strict supervision. There are always other medications, which healthcare professionals can prescribe so as to treat the symptoms somewhat.

CBT stands for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

CBT is a useful therapy in treating psychological dependence to Zopiclone. It assists people in modifying unfavorable perceptions of sleep, as well as in the utilization of medicines.

Alternative Sleep Aids

The withdrawal process requires non-habit-forming remedies like any over-the-counter sleep medication for a short period.

Lifestyle Modifications

  • Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily.
  • Create a Sleep-Conducive Environment: Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.
  • Limit Stimulants: Avoid caffeine and electronics before bedtime.
  • Practice Relaxation Techniques: Meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can calm the mind and body.

Support Groups

  • Joining support groups or seeking counseling can provide encouragement and understanding from others experiencing similar challenges.

Conclusion

Zopiclone can be a helpful solution for short-term sleep issues, but long-term use carries the risk of addiction and withdrawal. If you or someone you know is experiencing zopiclone withdrawal symptoms, it’s essential to seek professional guidance. 

The process of recovery might not be very easygoing, yet the journey is one that warrants an individual’s adoption. Here, you will get to know about the risks involved, identify the symptoms showing addicted tendencies, and learn about the available treatment to make better decisions towards the development of a sound mind of no substance dependency.