Zopiclone: Is there cause for concern in addiction services and general practice?

To examine the research on the dependence and abuse potential of zopiclone and the concerns that may be raised for addiction treatment services and General Practice. The focus is on four main areas: Problems that may arise from recommended use; Driving; Issues relating to dependence, and Abuse or recreational misuse.

Internet-based searches were carried out using the key descriptors of zopiclone and driving, road traffic accidents, dependence, withdrawal, abuse, misuse and overdose.

Problems arising from recommended use are rare and almost always confined to common side-effects. Driving-related studies indicate the potential for driving impairment for up to 12 hours following use and this has clear implications for both addiction services and general practice. The likelihood of dependence increases once recommended doses and time-frames are exceeded and vulnerable populations such as psychiatric patients and those with addiction problems are at risk.

Somewhat contrary to impressions that Zopiclone has little or no abuse potential, there is evidence that this medication is prescribed at higher than recommended doses and for longer than recommended. It can also be obtained readily other than by prescription. The potential for deliberate abuse may now be regarded as established, albeit at low levels compared to the benzodiazepines and this requires a degree of vigilance by prescribers and care managers.