Z_drug | Moderate Risk

Zopiclone (Imovane)

What to know about Zopiclone — also sold as Imovane, Imoclone, APO-Zopiclone, Imrest, Zopiclone GH and 1 more: uses, side effects, interactions, and safety considerations for people taking it or caring for someone who is.

Zopiclone (brand names: Imovane, Imoclone, APO-Zopiclone, Imrest, Zopiclone GH and 1 more) is classified as Moderate risk (3 risk points) by AllMeds. It is a S4 medication under the TGA in Australia. Z-drug sleep medication with significant CNS depression, respiratory risk, and high potential for tolerance and dependence.

Key Takeaways

  • TGA Schedule: S4 in Australia
  • Risk level: Moderate (3 points)
  • CNS depressant: May cause sedation, impair driving, and affect work capacity
  • Respiratory depression risk: Requires monitoring, especially with other CNS depressants
  • Recommended maximum duration: 14 days
  • PBS listed: Subsidised under the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme

Scheduling and Classification

Jurisdiction Classification Status
Australia (TGA) S4 PBS listed

Risk Profile

Risk Level Moderate
Risk Points 3
CNS Depressant Yes
Respiratory Risk Yes
Max Duration 14 days

Z-drug sleep medication with significant CNS depression, respiratory risk, and high potential for tolerance and dependence.

How Zopiclone is regulated

Zopiclone is overseen by medicines regulators in each country. The rules below explain how it's scheduled, what oversight applies, and what to discuss with your doctor or pharmacist before starting, changing, or stopping this medication.

Work capacity impact: As a CNS depressant, Zopiclone may impair driving, operating machinery, and cognitive function. Work capacity certificates should reflect any medication-related restrictions.

Australia TGA / PBS / State Schemes

Classified as S4 under the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

Listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for subsidised prescribing.

Check this medication against your full medication list

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Important: This page is general health information, not personal medical advice. If you have questions about your medication — including starting it, stopping it, changing the dose, or combining it with something else — speak with your doctor or pharmacist. For an emergency or suspected overdose, call your local emergency number or poison information service immediately. Information is drawn from regulator and clinical guideline sources (TGA, FDA, MHRA, NICE, PBS, CDC); see our methodology for details.