Can I take Zopiclone and Alcohol together?

Why this happens

Both zopiclone and alcohol are 'central nervous system depressants'. This means they both slow down brain activity and the messages travelling between the brain and the body. When taken together, they don't just add their effects; they multiply them (a synergistic effect), leading to a much deeper level of sedation than either would cause alone.

What you should do

You must not drink any alcohol while you are taking zopiclone. Even a small amount of alcohol can dangerously increase the sedative effects of the medication. If you have consumed alcohol, do not take your dose of zopiclone that night. If you accidentally mix the two and feel extremely sleepy or have trouble breathing, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Important precautions

Central Nervous System Depression

Do not take zopiclone if you have consumed alcohol. Combining these substances significantly increases the risk of extreme drowsiness, breathing difficulties (respiratory depression), and a deep sleep from which you cannot be woken.

Complex Sleep Behaviours

Zopiclone can cause you to get out of bed while not fully awake and do activities you do not remember, such as sleep-walking, driving, or preparing food. Stop taking zopiclone immediately if this occurs.

Next-day alertness

Zopiclone causes significant impairment the following morning. Do not drive or operate machinery for at least 12 hours after taking your dose, even if you feel awake, as your coordination and reaction times will be severely reduced.

Myasthenia gravis or severe respiratory failure

Do not take zopiclone if you have myasthenia gravis or severe breathing problems (such as severe COPD or sleep apnoea), as the medicine can further weaken your muscles and dangerously suppress your breathing.

Dependence and withdrawal

Zopiclone is for short-term use only (usually no more than 4 weeks). Taking it for longer can lead to physical dependence. Stopping suddenly after regular use can cause withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, shaking, and sweating.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

You must not drink alcohol while taking zopiclone. Alcohol significantly increases the sedative effects of the medicine, making you extremely sleepy and increasing the risk of dangerous side effects like breathing difficulties or being unable to wake up.

Caffeine (Coffee, tea, energy drinks)

Avoid consuming caffeine, especially in the evening. Caffeine is a stimulant that works against the effects of zopiclone, making it harder for the medicine to help you fall asleep.

Heavy or high-fat meals

Taking zopiclone immediately after a very heavy or high-fat meal may slow down how quickly the medicine is absorbed by your body. This could mean it takes longer for you to feel sleepy and for the medicine to start working.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.