Can Imovane (Zopiclone) Cause Dizziness?
Yes, Imovane (zopiclone) can cause dizziness, though it is not the most common adverse effect associated with this medication.
Primary Adverse Effect Profile
The hallmark adverse effect of zopiclone is bitter or metallic taste, occurring in approximately 7-26% of patients compared to 0.5-5.6% with placebo 1, 2. This taste disturbance is dose-related and, while bothersome, is generally not serious enough to preclude use 1.
Dizziness as an Adverse Effect
Dizziness does occur with zopiclone, but at lower frequencies than taste disturbance:
- In clinical trials of eszopiclone (the S-isomer of zopiclone), dizziness occurred in 5-7% of patients taking 2-3 mg doses 3
- A head-to-head comparison trial reported dizziness as one of the most common adverse events in both zopiclone 7.5 mg and eszopiclone 3 mg groups 4
- In observational studies of zaleplon (a related nonbenzodiazepine), somnolence or dizziness led to study withdrawal in 4% of older adults 5
Special Considerations in Older Adults
The risk of dizziness and related complications is substantially higher in elderly patients:
- Sedative-hypnotics including zopiclone show a 3-fold increase in dizziness, loss of balance, or falls in older patients 1
- There is a 4-fold increase in residual morning sedation in this population 1
- Patients may still feel drowsy the next day and should not drive or perform dangerous activities until fully awake 1
Clinical Context and Tolerability
Overall, zopiclone is well-tolerated with a favorable safety profile:
- Zopiclone has mild to moderate adverse effects in observational studies, which is more favorable than zolpidem's profile of serious adverse effects (amnesia, vertigo, confusion) 1
- The drug is generally well tolerated by patients of all ages, with bitter taste and dry mouth being the most frequently reported adverse effects 6
- Treatment withdrawal due to adverse effects is seldom required 6
Important Safety Warnings
The FDA warns that drugs taken at bedtime remain at levels high enough to interfere with morning driving 1. Dose reduction is advised in women and older/debilitated adults 1.