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Zopiclone,

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MsSerendipityUK
MsSerendipityUK

Hi, ive been on Zopiclone 7.5mg for 4 years now, Ive just been told, that its being linked to dementia. and I may not be able to renew my current prescription, Im really worried about giving it up, although of course the dementia aspect scares me too, has anyone else been informed of this?

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • DrReed
    DrReed MsSerendipityUK

    Posted

    Hi MsSerendipity,

    Related to your query, some literature is now available related to the use of benzodiazapines and their role in Alzheimer's disease. I believe that the inference to zopiclone relates to the fact that it works on the same part of the brain that a benzo such as Xanax or Valium do, so its not a stretch for some scientists to believe that the "Z" drugs may have some implication in Alzheimer's or dementia. I do believe the jury is still out on zopiclone, however. Be careful with it's use anyway.

  • june91890
    june91890 MsSerendipityUK

    Posted

    I have been taking Zolpidem for probably 20 years, have tried many times to come off it but simply cannot fall asleep unless I take it.   My doctor has now refused to renew my prescription, quoting NICE guidelines.   I am terrified at the effect this will have on my life as lack of sleep will make me unable to drive safely, carry out everyday activities and generally have a life.
    • sleeplessdude
      sleeplessdude june91890

      Posted

      You were lucky to be able to fall asleep on zolpidem for such a long time. For me, after only 2 months, a 10mg dose won't do much except give me some panic attacks the day after. Trying to taper off with oxazepam doesn't help much neither, too much tinnitus and anxiety . I've red that if we stop taking zolpidem, we can sleep again after less than 1 week. i know it's hard to do because we tend to freak out after 3 or 4 days but I've also seen that the body just adjust itself and we finally fall alsep after 2-3 days, then the week after it will take only 2 days, then only a few sleepless night per week with no panic attacks during day time. We have to hang on tight and trust our body to make us sleep, because, frankly it has no choice but doing so.  I will start again to taper off with a 5mg dose for 1 week and then to nothing and take the hard time...for a while  i hope.  good luck to you and me ! (and everyone else who try to stop these insane drugs)
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