Ambien vs Zopiclone: An Overview
If you are researching treatment options for insomnia, you may come across Ambien and zopiclone. Both are prescription medicines used for the short-term treatment of sleep problems, but they are different medicines with different characteristics.
Ambien is the brand name commonly associated with zolpidem, while zopiclone is another prescription sleeping medicine. Both belong to a group of medicines often referred to as Z-drugs or non-benzodiazepine hypnotics.
They can help some people with severe short-term insomnia, but neither medicine is suitable for everyone, and both carry risks including next-day drowsiness, tolerance, dependence and withdrawal symptoms. (nhs.uk)
Important: Sleeping medicines should only be used under appropriate medical supervision and according to the instructions provided by a qualified prescriber.
What Is Ambien?
Ambien is a brand name for zolpidem in some countries. Zolpidem is a prescription sleeping medicine used for the short-term treatment of severe insomnia.
It works by affecting the activity of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a calming chemical in the brain. This helps slow certain brain activity and can make it easier to fall asleep.
Zolpidem is generally intended for short-term use because the body can become accustomed to it and dependence can develop with longer-term use. (nhs.uk)
Learn more about Ambien/zolpidem here]
What Is Zopiclone?
Zopiclone is another prescription medicine used to treat short-term insomnia.
A doctor may prescribe it when sleep problems include:
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Waking up repeatedly during the night
- Waking up too early
- Sleep problems that affect everyday functioning
According to the NHS, zopiclone usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes to start working and is generally prescribed for a short period rather than long-term continuous use.
Read our complete guide to zopiclone]
Ambien vs Zopiclone: Key Differences
| Feature | Ambien (Zolpidem) | Zopiclone |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Zolpidem | Zopiclone |
| Medicine type | Z-drug / hypnotic | Z-drug / hypnotic |
| Main use | Short-term treatment of insomnia | Short-term treatment of insomnia |
| Approximate onset | Around 30 minutes to 1 hour | Around 30–60 minutes |
| Intended duration | Short-term use | Short-term use |
| Dependence risk | Possible | Possible |
| Prescription required | Yes | Yes |
| Common effects | Sleepiness, dry mouth, metallic taste | Sleepiness, bitter or metallic taste |
Both medicines can cause next-day drowsiness and other adverse effects. The choice of medicine should be based on individual circumstances and a healthcare professional’s assessment.
How Does Ambien Work?
Ambien (zolpidem) works by enhancing the effects of GABA, which has a calming effect on the brain.
This can help:
- Reduce the time it takes to fall asleep
- Promote sleep
- Reduce some night-time awakenings
However, zolpidem does not address the underlying cause of insomnia. Long-term sleep problems may require assessment and treatment of factors contributing to poor sleep.
How Does Zopiclone Work?
Zopiclone also affects GABA-related activity in the brain, producing a sedative effect that can help with sleep.
It may be prescribed for people experiencing:
- Trouble getting to sleep
- Night-time waking
- Early morning waking
Like zolpidem, zopiclone is generally intended for short-term treatment rather than ongoing use.
Which Works Faster: Ambien or Zopiclone?
Both medicines can begin working relatively quickly.
According to NHS information:
- Zolpidem: may take around 30 minutes to work, with NHS guidance also noting around 1 hour in general information.
- Zopiclone: usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes to start working.
However, the way a medicine affects an individual can vary depending on factors such as age, other medicines, health conditions and the specific type of insomnia.
How Long Do Ambien and Zopiclone Last?
Zolpidem generally has a shorter elimination half-life than zopiclone. NICE guidance lists an elimination half-life of approximately 2.5 hours for zolpidem and approximately 3.5 to 6.5 hours for zopiclone.
This does not mean a person should use these figures to decide how much medicine to take or when to drive. Sedative effects can vary between individuals and may continue into the following day.
Ambien vs Zopiclone Side Effects
Both medicines can cause side effects.
Common Ambien (Zolpidem) Side Effects
Possible side effects include:
- Daytime sleepiness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Metallic taste
- Reduced alertness
The NHS warns against driving or using machinery if zolpidem causes daytime sleepiness or reduced alertness.
Common Zopiclone Side Effects
Possible side effects include:
- A bitter or metallic taste
- Dry mouth
- Feeling sleepy
- Feeling dazed
- Reduced alertness the next day
The NHS advises that people should not drive, cycle or operate machinery for 12 hours after taking zopiclone, and should wait longer if they remain sleepy or less alert.
Read more about zopiclone side effects]
Can Ambien or Zopiclone Cause Dependence?
Yes. Both medicines can potentially lead to tolerance, dependence and withdrawal symptoms, particularly when used for longer periods or in ways other than prescribed.
NHS guidance states that zolpidem and zopiclone are generally used for short periods, often up to four weeks, because the body can become accustomed to their effects and dependence may occur.
NICE guidance also warns that Z-drugs can be associated with tolerance, dependence and withdrawal symptoms.
Important
Do not suddenly stop a sleeping medicine after prolonged or regular use without medical advice. A healthcare professional may recommend a gradual reduction when appropriate.
Can You Take Ambien and Zopiclone Together?
You should not combine Ambien (zolpidem) and zopiclone unless a qualified prescriber has specifically instructed you to do so.
Both medicines have sedative effects. Combining sedating medicines can increase the risk of excessive drowsiness and other serious problems.
You should also tell your doctor or pharmacist about other medicines you take, particularly medicines that cause drowsiness or affect breathing.
Can You Drink Alcohol With Ambien or Zopiclone?
Alcohol should be avoided while taking these medicines.
Alcohol can increase sedative effects and may make it harder to wake up or increase the risk of dangerous side effects. NHS guidance specifically warns against drinking alcohol with zolpidem and zopiclone.
Ambien vs Zopiclone: Which One Is Better?
There is no single answer to this question.
The better option depends on factors such as:
- Your specific sleep problem
- Your medical history
- Other medicines you take
- Previous reactions to sleeping medicines
- Your age and overall health
- Your risk of side effects or dependence
NICE guidance has stated that there is no compelling evidence of a clinically useful difference that makes one of these hypnotics universally superior for everyone. Treatment decisions should therefore be individualised and follow appropriate prescribing guidance.
Who Should Be Careful With Sleeping Medicines?
Sleeping medicines may not be suitable for everyone.
Speak with a doctor before taking a sleep medicine if you:
- Have breathing problems or sleep apnoea
- Have liver problems
- Have a history of alcohol or drug dependence
- Take opioid pain medicines
- Take other medicines that cause drowsiness
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have experienced unusual reactions to sleeping medicines
For example, NHS guidance notes that zopiclone may not be suitable for people with sleep apnoea, breathing problems, certain medical conditions or a history of addiction.
When Should You Seek Medical Help for Insomnia?
You should speak with a healthcare professional if:
- Insomnia regularly affects your daily life
- Sleep problems continue for weeks or months
- You rely on sleeping medicines to sleep
- You experience unusual behaviours while asleep
- You experience breathing difficulties
- You have severe daytime sleepiness
Persistent insomnia can have many causes, including stress, anxiety, depression, physical health problems, sleep disorders and lifestyle factors. Identifying the underlying cause is important.
Why can’t I sleep? Common causes of insomnia
Alternatives to Long-Term Sleeping Pill Use
For ongoing insomnia, sleeping tablets are usually not considered a long-term solution.
NICE highlights the importance of non-drug approaches and addressing underlying causes of insomnia. Approaches may include:
- Keeping regular sleep and wake times
- Reducing caffeine and stimulants
- Creating a comfortable sleep environment
- Addressing anxiety or stress
- Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)
Hypnotic medicines can relieve insomnia symptoms but do not necessarily treat the underlying cause.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ambien vs Zopiclone
Is Ambien stronger than zopiclone?
It is not accurate to simply describe one medicine as universally “stronger.” They are different medicines, and effects vary between individuals. A prescriber should determine which treatment, if any, is appropriate.
Is zopiclone safer than Ambien?
Neither medicine is automatically safer for every person. Both can cause side effects and carry risks of tolerance, dependence and next-day impairment.
Can I switch from Ambien to zopiclone?
Do not switch sleeping medicines without medical advice. NICE guidance recommends switching only in specific circumstances, such as adverse effects directly related to a particular medicine.
How quickly does zopiclone work?
Zopiclone usually starts working within approximately 30 to 60 minutes.
How quickly does Ambien work?
NHS information states that zolpidem may take around 30 minutes to work, while general guidance notes that it can take around one hour.
Can sleeping pills cure insomnia?
Sleeping medicines may provide short-term symptom relief, but they do not necessarily treat the underlying cause of insomnia. Persistent sleep problems should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Final Thoughts: Ambien vs Zopiclone
Ambien (zolpidem) and zopiclone are both prescription medicines used for the short-term treatment of insomnia. They have similarities because both are Z-drugs that affect calming pathways in the brain.
The main differences involve their chemical structure, duration of action and individual side-effect profiles. Neither medicine is automatically the “best” choice for everyone.
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