Zopiclone
Zopiclone (pronunciation: zo-pi-clone) is a nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic agent used in the treatment of insomnia. It is a cyclopyrrolone, which increases the normal transmission of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid in the central nervous system, as benzodiazepines do, but in a different way.
Etymology
The term "Zopiclone" is derived from the words "zo" and "pyrrolone". "Zo" is a prefix of Greek origin meaning "life", and "pyrrolone" is a chemical term referring to a type of organic compound. The combination of these words reflects the drug's function as a life-enhancing compound that promotes sleep.
Pharmacology
Zopiclone works by modulating the GABA receptor, a protein in the brain that, among other things, regulates sleep. It enhances the activity of GABA, making it more effective at calming nerve activity. This results in sedative and sleep-inducing effects.
Related Terms
- Insomnia: A sleep disorder that is characterized by difficulty falling and/or staying asleep.
- Hypnotic: A type of sleep medication that is used to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders.
- GABA: Gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that inhibits or reduces the activity of nerve cells within the brain.
- Cyclopyrrolone: A class of drugs which enhance the normal transmission of GABA.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Zopiclone include drowsiness, dizziness, and a bitter or metallic taste in the mouth. Less common side effects can include confusion, lack of coordination, and short-term memory loss.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Zopiclone
- Wikipedia's article - Zopiclone
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