Patients can easily get confused between two medications. Many medicines, especially those related to mental health and the nervous system, are similar but still have huge differences. Taking wrong the wrong medicine could cause severe health disorders. That’s why it is important to take the right medication.
The most commonly mistaken medicines are Zopiclone vs Xanax; in this article, we will discuss the difference between these medicines. Read the article completely to know all the important information about these two medicines.
Introduction to Zopiclone
Zopiclone is one of the most famous medicines used to treat Insomnia. This drug is from the non-benzodiazepine hypnotics group of medicines. The main purpose of this medicine is to help a person sleep better and for a longer time. You must know that patients need a prescription to purchase this medicine in the USA.
Zopiclone was approved in the 1980s and has been used worldwide as a Sleep Medications for Insomnia since then. This medicine is primarily available in tablet form, and the patient has to take it orally. It is suggested to take Zopiclone right before bedtime.
Introduction to Xanax
Xanax is a neuro medicine that helps treat anxiety and panic disorders. Unlike Zopiclone, Xanax Pills belongs to the benzodiazepine group of medicine that affects the body’s nervous system. To use this medicine, you have to have the doctor’s prescription and a detailed usage guide from a doctor.
Xanax is also termed an addictive drug, and constant use of Xanax can cause certain side effects to patients. Hence, it is recommended to report to your doctor constantly while taking Xanax to lower the risks of any possible side effects.
Difference between Zopiclone & Xanax
The only similarity between Zopiclone and Xanax is that they are medications for nervous system disorders. Other than that, every patient must be aware of many differences between these two drugs.
Even though you shouldn’t take these medicines without a doctor’s advice, knowing the difference could be helpful sometimes. We have discussed the major differences between Zopiclone and Xanax below.
Purpose of Use
The main difference between Zopiclone and Xanax is the purpose of use. Even though both these medicines are used for disorders related to the nervous system still, there are some differences. The Zopiclone is used for treating the Insomnia and help with sleeping.
However, Xanax is an antidepressant and antianxiety. This medicine is like a mood enhancer that helps reduce depression and relax the person’s mind. Xanax is also a more addictive drug compared to Zopiclone.
Mode of Action
The Zopiclone works by directly interacting with your brain cells. Specifically, it binds with the GABA or gamma-aminobutyric acid, the receptor in your brain. The Zopiclone starts working by relaxing the brain cells and instantly causing sleep.
On the other hand, Xanax affects the brain and the central nervous system. This medicine increases the effect of a chemical in the central nervous system and lowers the enzymes causing stress and depression. This medicine also makes the body relax.
Doses Sleep Medications for Insomnia
Another major difference between the Zopiclone and Xanax is the doses. This difference helps patients identify each drug out of the two. Zopiclone is available in higher doses, like 3.75 mg or 7.5 mg. There is another dose version of this drug as well, like Zopisign 7.5mg.
However, Xanax is available in much lower dose quantities. The usual dose of Xanax ranges from 0.5 mg to 1 mg. Doctors usually prescribe 0.5 doses once in the morning for adults.
However, every patient should consult with a doctor before taking Zopiclone or Xanax. Ask him the exact dose right for your age and health requirement.
Zopiclone vs Xanax: Which is better for Insomnia?
Most patients think Zopiclone and Xanax are for sleeping problems, especially Insomnia. It is true to some extent. Doctors might prescribe Xanax to patients who are facing sleeplessness due to stress or depression. However, Xanax is not the exact medicine for Insomnia.
So, we cannot say that Xanax is a better medicine for treating Insomnia compared to Zopiclone Dosages. That’s why it is better to ask your doctor about the right medicine for your disease and stick to his prescription. He can tell you right weather Zopiclone for Anxiety and Xanax for insomnia or not.
Side effects of Xanax & Zopiclone
Just like any other medication, Zopiclone and Xanax have their possible side effects. Mostly, the side effects appear when the patient doesn’t follow the doctor’s prescription and takes the wrong dose.
Every patient must be aware of these Zopiclone and Xanax side effects, and if any of these appear, he should get medical attention immediately.
The side effects of Zopiclone are listed below:
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Abdominal Pain
- Loss or appetite
- Heartburn
- Headache
- Arrhythmia
- Blur Vision
The side effects of Xanax are shared below:
- Muscle Pain
- Drowsiness
- Hypersomnia
- Blackouts
- Respiratory Disorders
- Constipation
- Dementia
Precautions
Medicinal therapy requires much more precaution than any other treatment. We have shared a few of the prescriptions that you should follow. By following the safety measures, you will have a much lower chance of getting any side effects.
- Always follow the doctor’s prescription before taking the medicines.
- Don’t select a dose yourself. Instead, ask your doctor for the right dose based on your age and disease severity.
- Don’t take two medicines from the same medicine group at the same time.
- Don’t drive after taking sleeping medicine like Zopisign 10mg.
- Take the insomnia medication right before bedtime.
- Take the Zopiclone and Xanax away from the children’s reach.
- Zopiclone and Xanax can be addictive, and you shouldn’t take them regularly without a doctor’s consent.
Bottom Line
Anxiety, depression, and Insomnia are all connected with each other. One disease develops in the other if the on-time treatment is ignored. Patients should be cautious about their medicine intake in case of any of the diseases. The patient must know that Zopiclone is for Insomnia and Xanax for Anxiety.
If you still have any confusion about Zopiclone vs Xanax, the best solution would be to ask your doctor. We also recommend our readers never take medication without a doctor’s consultation.
References
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9824/xanax-oral/details
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/zopiclone/about-zopiclone/