ZOPICLONE

Zopiclone: traditional use and its role in management of anxiety.

Zopiclone: Traditional Use And Its Role In Management Of Anxiety

Introduction

Zopiclone, a benzodiazepine-like drug was introduced and initially promoted as having less dependence and withdrawal than traditional benzodiazepine drugs(www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14519173).

Discussion

However, zopiclone may have an even greater addictive potential than benzodiazepines and has been described as a "benzodiazepine in disguise". Tolerance to the effects of zopiclone can develop after a few weeks. Long term use should be avoided. Abrupt withdrawal particularly with prolonged and high doses can in severe cases cause seizures and delirium(www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16804151 ).

Publications in the British Medical Journal do not give ...