It’s common for patients to get confused about medicines with similar names, especially when they buy sleeping pills online in the UK. If you’re someone struggling with sleep problems, you’ve probably come across Zolpidem and Zopiclone. In the UK, both are prescribed for managing severe insomnia, a condition when someone finds it hard to fall asleep or wake up frequently in the middle of the night.
This often raises the question; Are Zolpidem and Zopiclone the same? The answer is yes in a way, since both help with similar symptoms, but there is more into it. In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how they differ, how long they take to work and what side effects or risks you should know about.
What Is Zolpidem and Zopiclone Medication?
Both medications are from a group of medicines usually known as non-benzodiazepine hypnotics. They both work by calming down the brain activity of the user, which helps him fall asleep faster and stay asleep for a longer period.
Doctors only usually prescribe them when it becomes really hard to manage insomnia symptoms and it is affecting your life and overall health. Zolpidem is commonly prescribed as a short-term insomnia relief medicine. It makes you fall asleep quickly and reduces night-time awakenings. On the other hand, Zopiclone is advised when you want to improve the overall quality of sleep, not just falling asleep faster.
Zolpidem vs Zopiclone – Key Differences
Below is a table that shows the most important differences between the both medicines:
|
Feature
|
Zolpidem |
Zopiclone |
|
Main Use
|
Short-term relief from insomnia |
Short-term insomnia relief
|
|
How Fast It Works
|
Within 30 minutes |
Within 1 hour
|
|
How Long It Lasts
|
6 to 8 hours |
7 to 8 hours
|
|
Common Strengths
|
5mg, 10mg |
3.75mg, 7.5mg, 10mg
|
|
Best For
|
Falling asleep quickly |
Improving sleep quality overall
|
| Addiction Risk |
Yes, if used for more than 4 weeks |
Yes, if used for more than 4 weeks
|
How Do They Work?
They are known for relaxing the user’s brain by increasing the levels of a chemical in the brain called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). This helps the user’s body to relax and makes him fall asleep quickly.
- Usually Zolpidem is used before bed, it works faster, you feel its effect in just 30 minutes. It’s best for people whose main issues are racing thoughts and taking too much time to fall asleep.
- Zopiclone may take a little longer to work, but it improves the sleep quality of the user by minimizing night-time awakenings and making your sleep comfortable.
If you have visited any doctor and he prescribed you to buy Zopiclone 7.5mg online in the UK, then you problem might be more related to the overall sleep quality rather than just falling asleep.
Dosage and Usage
The correct dose of these medications totally depends on the user’s age, health condition and the severity of the symptoms. Your doctor will advise you the best suitable dose after examining you:
- Zolpidem: For adults, the starting dose is usually 5mg before bedtime. If needed, some may use 10mg.
- Zopiclone: Doctors often start with 3.75mg, especially in older adults, to avoid strong effects. The dose can go up to 7.5mg for adults with severe insomnia. You can buy Zopiclone 3.75mg online in the UK if you are just starting treatment.
Remember: only take these pills if you can sleep for 7–8 hours. Taking them without enough sleep time can cause drowsiness the next day. If you want zolpidem compared to another famous sleep medicine in the UK then you can read Zolpidem vs Zopisign – What’s the Real Difference?.
Common Side Effects
These medicines are safe to use for most people, but only in a few certain people side effects can occur. Some Zolpidem side effects are:
- Drowsiness the next morning
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Upset Stomach
Zopiclone side effects may include:
- Bitter or metallic taste in the mouth (very common)
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Drowsiness
- Headache
Memory problems, hallucinations, poor coordination or allergic reaction on skin are some of the severe side effects of these medicines but they occur very rarely. If they happen, contact your doctor right away.
Precautions While Using
Following are some important precautions that you should take while using either of the two medications:
- Do not mix any of these tablets with alcohol, as it increases drowsiness and can become life threatening to you.
- Avoid caffeine (tea, coffee & energy drinks) while using any sleeping pill.
- Do not drive a car or operate heavy machines after taking the pills, especially when medicine makes you sleepy the next morning in the starting days.
- Inform your doctor in advance if you are going through any kidney, liver or breathing related issues.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women must use these pills after consulting their doctor.
Are They Addictive?
Yes, both medicines are addictive if used daily for more than 4 weeks in high doses. That is why doctors recommend that both of these medicines are not for long-term use. It is always safe to start with the lower dose, buy Zolpidem 5mg online in the UK if you are a first-time user. Also, if you are taking it for a long time do not stop suddenly. If you do so then you might have to face some withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, restlessness or poor sleep quality. Always reduce the dose gradually by consulting your doctor.
Buy Zolpidem/Zopiclone Online in the UK
Nowadays many people in the UK prefer online pharmacies and websites for convenience and privacy. If you want 100% original Zolpidem and zopiclone medications without long queues, you can buy from our website; ProMeds UK.
At ProMeds UK, we provide medicines only from trusted manufacturers and deliver them discreetly and securely all across the UK. Whether you want to buy Zolpidem 10mg online in the UK or order Zopiclone tablets, we have multiple options available at affordable prices.
You can place your order confidently and get your essential medicines delivered at your doorstep. We also have a vast collection of effective painkillers, nootropics, anxiety pills and other sleeping aids for you to choose from.
FAQs
Q: Which one works faster, Zolpidem or Zopiclone?
A: Zolpidem usually works within 30 minutes, while Zopiclone may take a little longer, usually up to an hour.
Q: Can I take Zolpidem or Zopiclone every night?
A: Both are for short-term use only. Daily or long-term use increases the risk of addiction. It is advised to use them only when necessary.
Q: What is the starting dose of Zolpidem and Zopiclone?
A: Most doctors prescribe Zolpidem 5mg or Zopiclone 3.75mg for the first time users. The dose may be increased gradually if needed.
