Zopiclone, a nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic, is widely prescribed to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. While it is effective in inducing sleep and improving the quality of rest, understanding how long Zopiclone stays in your system is crucial for both its safe use and managing potential side effects.
What is Zopiclone?
Before diving into the pharmacokinetics of Zopiclone, it’s essential to understand what it is and how it works. Zopiclone belongs to a class of drugs known as nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics, which are designed to modulate the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain. This modulation enhances the calming effects of GABA, leading to sedation, muscle relaxation, and a reduction in anxiety levels.
How Does Zopiclone Work?
Zopiclone’s mechanism of action is centered around its ability to increase the effectiveness of GABA. By binding to GABA receptors in the brain, Zopiclone facilitates the opening of chloride channels, which results in an influx of chloride ions into the neuron. This process hyperpolarizes the neuron, making it less likely to fire and thus promoting a state of calm and sleepiness.
Pharmacokinetics of Zopiclone
To understand how long Zopiclone stays in your system, it’s necessary to delve into its pharmacokinetics, which includes absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.
Absorption
Zopiclone is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream after oral administration. It achieves peak plasma concentrations within 1-2 hours post-consumption. This rapid absorption is one reason why Zopiclone can start working within an hour of taking the medication.
Distribution
After absorption, Zopiclone is distributed throughout the body. It crosses the blood-brain barrier efficiently, which is crucial for its sedative effects.
Metabolism
Zopiclone undergoes extensive metabolism in the liver. The primary metabolites are inactive, meaning they do not contribute to the drug’s sedative effects. The metabolism process is influenced by the liver’s enzymatic activity, and any impairment in liver function can affect how quickly Zopiclone is metabolized.
Excretion
The elimination of Zopiclone is primarily through renal excretion. The drug and its metabolites are excreted in the urine. Kidney function plays a significant role in this process, and individuals with impaired renal function may experience a longer retention time for Zopiclone in their system.
Half-Life of Zopiclone
The half-life of a medication is the time it takes for the concentration of the drug in the bloodstream to reduce by half. For Zopiclone, the half-life averages between 5 to 6 hours. However, this can vary based on several factors:
- Age: Older adults may have a longer half-life, often up to 7 hours, due to slower metabolism and excretion rates.
- Liver and Kidney Function: Impaired hepatic or renal function can prolong the half-life of Zopiclone, leading to a longer presence in the body.
- Dosage and Frequency of Use: Higher doses or more frequent use can result in accumulation of the drug in the system, potentially extending its half-life.
Detection of Zopiclone in Drug Tests
The detection of Zopiclone in drug tests depends on the type of test and the individual’s metabolism.
- Urine Tests: Zopiclone can be detected in urine for several days after the last dose, typically up to 49 hours.
- Blood Tests: Blood tests can detect Zopiclone for up to 24 hours after the last dose.
- Hair Tests: Hair tests offer a longer detection window and can indicate Zopiclone use over several months.
Factors Influencing How Long Zopiclone Stays in Your System
Several factors can influence the duration for which Zopiclone remains active in your system:
Age
Older individuals tend to process Zopiclone more slowly, leading to longer retention times. This is due to age-related declines in metabolic and excretory functions.
Metabolic Rate
Individuals with a higher metabolic rate may eliminate Zopiclone more rapidly. Conversely, those with a slower metabolic rate may experience a longer duration of action.
Liver and Kidney Function
Impaired liver or kidney function can significantly prolong the presence of Zopiclone in the body. This is because both organs play critical roles in the metabolism and excretion of the drug.
Dosage and Frequency of Use
Higher doses or more frequent use of Zopiclone can lead to accumulation of the drug in the system, potentially extending its half-life and overall duration of action.
Drug Interactions
Using other medications can impact how Zopiclone is metabolized. Certain drugs can either enhance or inhibit the enzymes responsible for metabolizing Zopiclone, affecting its longevity in the body.
Also Read: Zopiclone 7.5 mg how many can I take?
Side Effects and Risks
While Zopiclone is effective for short-term management of insomnia, it comes with several potential side effects and risks.
Common Side Effects
- Daytime drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Decreased interest in sex
- Double vision
- Restlessness
- Problems with coordination
- Indigestion
- Stomach pain
- Impotence
- Muscle aches
- Increased sensitivity to touch, light, or sound
- Increased or decreased appetite.
Serious Side Effects
- Severe anxiety
- Heart palpitations
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Tachycardia (high heart rate)
- Rebound insomnia, where insomnia returns and can be worse than before starting Zopiclone.
Dependency and Withdrawal
Zopiclone, although a nonbenzodiazepine, carries a risk of dependency and addiction, especially with long-term use or high doses. The risk is higher if the medication is taken for more than a few weeks or stopped suddenly rather than being gradually tapered off.
Withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Severe anxiety
- Heart palpitations
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Tachycardia
- Rebound insomnia.
Safe Use and Precautions
To ensure the safe use of Zopiclone, it is crucial to follow these guidelines:
- Dosage: Zopiclone is typically prescribed in doses of 3.75mg or 7.5mg, taken once daily right before bed. Elderly patients or those with certain medical conditions may start with a lower dose of 3.75mg.
- Duration of Use: Zopiclone is usually prescribed for short-term use, up to 2-4 weeks, to prevent tolerance and dependency.
- Storage: Store Zopiclone in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and below 77ºF. Do not use the medication after the expiration date listed on the package[3].
- Overdose: Never take more than the prescribed dose. If an overdose occurs, seek immediate medical help. Symptoms of an overdose can include loss of balance, limp muscles, difficulty breathing, drowsiness, confusion, and light-headedness or dizziness.
Conclusion
Zopiclone is a valuable medication for treating insomnia, but its use must be carefully managed. Understanding how long Zopiclone stays in your system is vital for avoiding potential side effects, dependency, and ensuring safe use. The drug’s half-life, influenced by factors such as age, metabolic rate, and organ function, typically ranges between 5 to 6 hours. However, its effects and detectability can extend beyond this period.
By adhering to prescribed dosages, being aware of potential interactions, and monitoring for side effects, individuals can maximize the benefits of Zopiclone while minimizing its risks. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on using Zopiclone or any other medication.
Also Read: When Should I Take Zopiclone in the UK?
