Zopiclone, Zaleplon and Zolpidem
Overview
What is it?
The ‘Z-drugs’ are a group of non-benzodiazepine drugs with effects similar to benzodiazepines which were designed to be used in the treatment of insomnia.
Sought after effects
• Sleep-inducing
• Relaxant
• skeletal muscle relaxation
Undesired effects
• amnesia
• depression
• cognitive impairment (confusion)
What does it look like?
Zopiclone are typically 3.75mg or 7.5mg (white) oval, scored tablets. They come in other colours (3.75mg are usually orange or blue) but have the dose marked on them.
Zolpidem are 5mg or 10mg white oval tablets.
Zaleplon are usually found as capsules of 5mg (white/orange) and 10mg (white).
How is it taken?
These are taken orally (swallowed)