Zopiclone (Systemic)
Brand Names : Imovane
Precautions While Using This MedicineIf
you think you need to take zopiclone for more than 7 to 10 days, be sure to
discuss it with your doctor. Insomnia that lasts longer than this may be a
sign of another medical problem.
This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants
(medicines that cause drowsiness). Some examples of CNS depressants are antihistamines
or medicine for hay fever, other allergies, or colds; sedatives, tranquilizers,
or sleeping medicine; prescription pain medicine or narcotics; barbiturates;
medicine for seizures; muscle relaxants; or anesthetics, including some dental
anesthetics. Check with your doctor before taking any
of the above while you are using this medicine
.
This medicine may cause some people, especially older persons, to become
drowsy, dizzy, lightheaded, clumsy or unsteady, or less alert than they are
normally. Even though zopiclone is taken at bedtime, it may cause some people
to feel drowsy or less alert on arising. Make sure you
know how you react to zopiclone before you drive, use machines, or do anything
else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy, or are not alert or able to
see well
.
If you develop any unusual and strange thoughts or behavior while you are
taking zopiclone, be sure to discuss it with your doctor. Some changes that
have occurred in people taking this medicine are like those seen in people
who drink alcohol and then act in a manner that is not normal. Other changes
may be more unusual and extreme, such as confusion, worsening of depression,
hallucinations (seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there), suicidal
thoughts, and unusual excitement, nervousness, or irritability.
If you will be taking zopiclone for a long time, do not stop taking it
without first checking with your doctor. Your doctor may want you to gradually
reduce the amount you are taking before stopping completely. Stopping this
medicine suddenly may cause withdrawal side effects.
After taking zopiclone for insomnia, you may have difficulty sleeping (rebound
insomnia) for the first few nights after you stop taking it.
If you think you or someone else may have taken an
overdose of this medicine, get emergency help at once
. Taking an overdose
of zopiclone or taking alcohol or other CNS depressants with zopiclone may
lead to breathing problems and unconsciousness. Some signs of an overdose
are clumsiness or unsteadiness, mental or mood changes, severe drowsiness,
or unusual tiredness or weakness.
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