Zopiclone is one of the most commonly prescribed sleep medications in the UK for people struggling with insomnia. It works by calming brain activity, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. But while Zopiclone can be very effective, it is also important to understand the safe maximum dose in 24 hours. Exceeding the recommended limit can increase the risk of serious side effects, dependency, and health complications.

In this guide, we’ll explore the recommended daily dosage of Zopiclone, the maximum safe limit, what happens if you take too much, and how to use it responsibly.

What is Zopiclone?

Zopiclone belongs to a class of medicines known as “Z-drugs,” which are designed to treat short-term sleep problems. Unlike some older sleeping tablets, Zopiclone tends to have fewer side effects and is usually prescribed for insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, or frequent night awakenings.

It works by enhancing the effects of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter in the brain that slows down nerve activity. This creates a calming effect, helping the body to naturally drift into sleep.

If you’d like to know more about this medicine and its role in sleep management, check out this article: Know about Zopiclone – The UK’s trusted sleep aid.

Recommended Daily Dosage of Zopiclone

For most adults, the standard starting dose of Zopiclone is 7.5 mg taken once per night before bedtime. In some cases, doctors may prescribe a lower dose of 3.75 mg, especially for older adults, those with liver or kidney problems, or individuals who are sensitive to medications.

• Adults under 65: 7.5 mg once nightly
• Older adults (65+): 3.75 mg to reduce risks of drowsiness and falls
• Short-term use: Usually 2 to 4 weeks, as Zopiclone is not meant for long-term daily use

It is important to take Zopiclone only when you are ready for bed and have at least 7–8 hours to sleep, as it may cause drowsiness the following day.

If you’re curious about how long Zopiclone will keep you asleep, read this detailed guide: How long will I sleep if I take Zopiclone?.

Maximum Dose of Zopiclone in 24 Hours

The maximum recommended dose of Zopiclone in 24 hours is 7.5 mg. This means you should not take more than one tablet in a single night.

Why is this limit important? Because exceeding 7.5 mg in 24 hours increases the risk of:

• Excessive drowsiness the next day
• Memory problems or confusion
• Impaired coordination (higher risk of falls and accidents)
• Dependence or tolerance

For older adults and patients with liver/kidney conditions, the maximum is 3.75 mg per night.

For different groups of patients, the safe dosage varies:

Patient Group	Recommended Dose	Maximum Dose in 24 Hours	Notes
Healthy Adults (under 65)	7.5 mg once nightly	7.5 mg	Should be taken before bedtime only
Older Adults (65+)	3.75 mg once nightly	3.75 mg	Higher risk of drowsiness, falls, and confusion
Patients with Liver/Kidney Conditions	3.75 mg once nightly	3.75 mg	Reduced metabolism, so lower dose is safer
Severe Insomnia Cases	7.5 mg once nightly	7.5 mg	Only if prescribed by a doctor

⚠️ Important: Taking more than these limits can cause serious health risks such as breathing difficulties, extreme drowsiness, and dependency.

If you feel your current dose isn’t helping, it is better to consult your doctor rather than taking more.

What Happens If You Take Too Much Zopiclone?

Taking more than the maximum dose of Zopiclone in 24 hours can be dangerous. Symptoms of overdose may include:

• Extreme drowsiness or confusion
• Breathing difficulties
• Low blood pressure
• Loss of consciousness

In severe cases, an overdose can be life-threatening and may require hospitalization.

If you or someone you know has taken more than the prescribed amount, seek emergency medical help immediately.

For more insight into how sleep issues affect your health, you may find this article useful: Can sleep deprivation cause nausea?.

Safe Usage Guidelines

To reduce risks and ensure effectiveness, here are some safe usage practices for Zopiclone:

• Take only once per night and never exceed 7.5 mg in 24 hours
• Avoid alcohol as it increases drowsiness and breathing risks
• Do not combine with other sedatives without medical advice
• Use short-term only (2–4 weeks) to avoid dependence
• Store safely to prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets

For external medical guidance, you can refer to the NHS guidelines on Zopiclone.

When to Consult a Doctor

You should seek medical advice if:

• Zopiclone does not improve your sleep after 2–3 weeks
• You feel the need to increase your dose
• You experience side effects such as hallucinations, memory loss, or confusion

Your doctor may adjust your treatment or recommend alternative therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which has been proven effective for chronic insomnia (Mayo Clinic – Insomnia treatments).

Conclusion

The maximum dose of Zopiclone in 24 hours is 7.5 mg for adults and 3.75 mg for older patients or those with health conditions. Taking more than this can lead to dangerous side effects, dependency, or even overdose. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and never self-adjust your dosage.

If Zopiclone isn’t working for you, consult your healthcare provider for safer alternatives instead of increasing the dose on your own. Remember: better sleep is possible with the right medical guidance and healthy sleep habits.

For further reading, don’t miss:

• How long will I sleep if I take Zopiclones?
• Know about Zopiclone – The UK’s trusted sleep aid