Zolium

Zolium Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Zolium is a brand name. Its generic name is Zopiclone.

Introduction

Zolium is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic agent used to treat insomnia. It is chemically related to benzodiazepines but has distinct pharmacological properties. Zolium has anxiolytic, hypnotic, muscle relaxant, anticonvulsant, and amnestic properties.

Uses of Zolium

Zolium is used to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. It works by helping you to relax, fall asleep and stay asleep.

Mechanism of Action

Zolium works by experts to modulate y-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the central nervous system (CNS). GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, which controls nerve impulses that cause anxiety and insomnia.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

Zolium typically takes 30–60 minutes to start working. The peak effect of the drug is usually seen after an hour of taking the drug.

Absorption

Zolium is quickly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

Route Of Elimination

Zolium is metabolized mainly by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) in the liver, and metabolites are excreted in urine and feces.

Dosage

Zolium is available in 5mg and 7.5mg tablets. The recommended adult dose is 7.5mg taken once a day, one hour before bed.

Administration

Zolium should be taken orally with a glass of water. It should be taken immediately before going to bed and should not be taken with or after a meal.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of zopiclone include depression, headache, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, constipation, fatigue, and dizziness. Other less common side effects include confusion, difficulty concentrating, agitation, confusion, difficulty sleeping, nightmares, blurred vision, and loss of coordination.

Toxicity

The most common signs and symptoms of an overdose of zopiclone are drowsiness, confusion, and coma. Other signs and symptoms include hypotension, bradycardia, and respiratory depression. In cases of severe overdose, death may occur.

Precautions

Before taking zopiclone, patients should tell their doctor if they have a history of hypersensitivity to zopiclone or any of its components, or to other non-benzodiazepines. Patients should not take alcohol while taking zopiclone, as this may increase the effects of the medication.

Interactions

Zolium may interact with other medications, such as cimetidine, antacids, anticonvulsants, anti-seizure medications, felbamate, lithium, benzodiazepines, or other sedatives. These drugs may increase the effects of zopiclone.

Disease Interactions

Patients with certain medical conditions may be at risk of experiencing adverse effects from zopiclone, such as kidney or liver disease, respiratory depression, or myasthenia gravis.

Drug Interactions

Zolium may interact with other medications, including muscle relaxants, anti-arrhythmics, anti-depressants, and anti-psychotics. Patients taking these drugs should inform their doctor before taking zopiclone.

Food Interactions

There are no known food interactions with zopiclone. However, patients should always tell their doctors if they are taking any supplements or vitamins.

Pregnancy Use

Zolium is not recommended for use in pregnant women or women planning to become pregnant. Animal studies on zopiclone have shown that it can be toxic to developing fetuses.

Lactation Use

Zolium is not recommended for use in women who are breastfeeding. The drug is excreted in breast milk and may have harmful effects on the infant.

Acute Overdose

An acute overdose of zopiclone can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Signs and symptoms of overdose may include altered consciousness, respiratory depression, and coma.

Contraindication

Zolium is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to zopiclone, any of its components, or to other non-benzodiazepines. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment or acute depressive states.

Use Direction

The recommended adult dose of zopiclone is 7.5 mg taken once a day, one hour before bed time. The dosage may be adjusted based on the patient’s reaction and response. Patients should not take zopiclone for more than 4 weeks unless instructed by a doctor.

Storage Condition

Zolium tablets should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. The tablets should be kept out of the reach of children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of Zolium is approximately 6 L/kg.

Half Life

The elimination half-life of zopiclone is approximately 4-5 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of zopiclone is approximately 40 mL/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Zolium

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Zolium

What is Zolium?

Zolium is a prescription medicine used to treat people who have difficulty sleeping (insomnia). It belongs to a family of drugs known as sedative-hypnotics and works by blocking the action of a brain chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which helps to produce a calming effect and decrease activity in the brain.

How does Zolium work?

Zolium works by blocking the action of a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter, which helps to produce a calming effect and decrease activity in the brain. It produces a mild but noticeable sedation and helps people with difficulty falling asleep.

Does Zolium interact with other medications?

Yes, Zolium can interact with some other medications, including other central nervous system depressants, such as narcotics, sedatives, and certain antidepressant medications. It is important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking Zolium if you are taking any of these medications.

What are the possible side effects of Zolium?

The most common side effects of Zolium include daytime drowsiness, headache, dizziness, and dry mouth. If you experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor as soon as possible. Rare but serious side effects can include difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis.

What are the safety precautions when taking Zolium?

Zolium should not be taken with alcohol or any other sedative medications as this can be dangerous. It should also not be taken if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you have liver or kidney disease, it is important to let your doctor know before taking Zolium.

How long does Zolium stay in the body?

It takes approximately 6-8 hours for Zolium to be completely eliminated from the body. If taken at a higher dose or for a longer duration, Zolium can stay in the body for a longer period of time, up to 12 hours.

What is the recommended dose of Zolium?

The recommended dose of Zolium is 7.5 mg in a single dose, taken just before bedtime when needed. It is important not to take higher doses than what is recommended and to follow your doctor’s instructions.

Is Zolium addictive?

Zolium is in a class of drugs known as sedative-hypnotics and, like other sedative-hypnotic medications, it carries a risk of dependence and potential abuse. As such, it is important to use Zolium according to your doctor’s instructions and to never take higher doses than what is recommended.

Is Zolium safe for long-term use?

Long-term use of Zolium may lead to dependency and potential abuse, so it is important to use it according to your doctor's instructions and not take higher doses than what is recommended. It is also important to contact your doctor before taking Zolium for more than 4 weeks.

Can Zolium be taken with food?

Yes, Zolium can be taken with food if needed. However, it is important to note that taking Zolium with food can reduce the absorption of the drug, which may make it less effective.

How should Zolium be stored?

Zolium should be stored at room temperature, away from direct light, heat, and moisture. Keep this medication and all other medications out of the reach of children and pets.

What are the withdrawal symptoms of Zolium?

The most common withdrawal symptoms associated with Zolium include irritability, anxiety, insomnia, dizziness, nausea, and muscle aches. If you find yourself feeling these symptoms, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Will I become dependent on Zolium?

It is possible to become dependent on Zolium, as it is a sedative-hypnotic drug. As such, it is important to use Zolium according to your doctor’s instructions and to never take higher doses than what is recommended.

Can I take Zolium while pregnant?

No, Zolium should not be taken while pregnant, as it may cause harm to the fetus. It is important to speak to your doctor before taking any medication while pregnant.

Can I take Zolium while breastfeeding?

No, Zolium should not be taken while breastfeeding as it may pass into breast milk and cause harm to the baby. It is important to speak to your doctor before taking any medication while breastfeeding.

Is there a generic version of Zolium?

Yes, generic versions of Zolium are available. These generic versions may have different names, but they contain the same active ingredient, zopiclone, as the brand-name version.

Can Zolium be used to treat anxiety?

No, Zolium is not indicated to treat anxiety and should not be used as such. It is important to speak to your doctor if you think you may be experiencing anxiety, as there are other medications that can be used to treat this condition.

What is the shelf life of Zolium?

The shelf life of Zolium is typically up to 2 years. However, you should always check the expiration date on the package to make sure the medication is still safe to take.

Can Zolium cause fatigue?

Yes, Zolium can cause fatigue as a side effect. If you experience fatigue while taking Zolium, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Can I take other medications with Zolium?

Yes, you can take other medications with Zolium. However, it is important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking Zolium if you are taking any other sedative medications, such as narcotics, sedatives, or certain antidepressant medications.

Can I take Zolium if I have high blood pressure?

Yes, but it is important to speak to your doctor first to make sure that Zolium is safe for you to take. Some people with high blood pressure may be more sensitive to the effects of Zolium.

Can Zolium cause nightmares?

Yes, Zolium can cause nightmares as a possible side effect. If you experience nightmares while taking Zolium, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Can Zolium cause weight gain?

Yes, Zolium can cause weight gain as a side effect. If you experience weight gain while taking Zolium, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Can I take Zolium if I have liver disease?

Yes, but it is important to speak to your doctor to make sure that Zolium is safe for you to take. Some people with liver disease may be more sensitive to the effects of Zolium.

Can I take Zolium if I have kidney disease?

Yes, but it is important to speak to your doctor to make sure that Zolium is safe for you to take. Some people with kidney disease may be more sensitive to the effects of Zolium.

How should I take Zolium?

It is important to take Zolium as prescribed by your doctor. For most people, the recommended dose is 7.5 mg in a single dose, taken just before bed when needed. It is important to never take higher doses than what is recommended and to always follow your doctor's instructions.

Is Zolium effective for treating insomnia?

Yes, Zolium has been found to be effective in treating insomnia. It produces a mild but noticeable sedation and helps people fall asleep.

Can Zolium cause dizziness?

Yes, Zolium can cause dizziness as a side effect. If you experience dizziness while taking Zolium, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Can Zolium cause blurred vision?

Yes, Zolium can cause blurred vision as a side effect. If you experience blurred vision while taking Zolium, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Can I take Zolium with alcohol?

No, it is not advisable to take Zolium with alcohol. This can be dangerous and can increase the risk of side effects, such as dizziness and drowsiness.

What is the difference between Zolium and other sleep medications?

The main difference between Zolium and other sleep medications is that Zolium is a sedative-hypnotic medication, which is intended to produce a calming effect and decrease activity in the brain. Other sleep medications, such as benzodiazepines, can be used to treat insomnia but have a higher risk of addiction and potential abuse.

Can Zolium affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

Yes, Zolium can cause drowsiness and can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is important not to drive or operate machinery if you feel drowsy after taking Zolium.

Can Zolium reduce my anxiety?

No, Zolium is not indicated to reduce anxiety and should not be used as such. It is important to speak to your doctor if you think you may be experiencing anxiety, as there are other medications that can be used to treat this condition.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Zolium?

If you miss a dose of Zolium, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible. Do not try to make up for the missed dose by taking a double dose, as this can be dangerous.

Can I take Zolium with other medications?

Yes, you can take other medications with Zolium. However, it is important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking Zolium if you are taking any other sedative medications, such as narcotics, sedatives, or certain antidepressant medications.

Can Zolium cause constipation?

Yes, Zolium can cause constipation as a side effect. If you experience constipation while taking Zolium, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.

What is the recommended duration of Zolium treatment?

The recommended duration of treatment with Zolium is usually up to 4 weeks. However, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking Zolium for more than 4 weeks.

Can Zolium affect my memory?

Yes, Zolium can affect your memory as a side effect. If you experience memory problems while taking Zolium, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.