Zopiclone
[CAS# 43200-80-2]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Nervous system medication >> Sedative and hypnotics
• Name: Zopiclone
• Synonyms: 4-Methyl-1-piperazinecarboxylic acid 6-(5-chloro-2-pyridinyl)-6,7-dihydro-7-oxo-5H-pyrrolo[3,4-b]pyrazin-5-yl ester; Imovane
• Molecular Formula: C₁₇H₁₇ClN₆O₃
• Molecular Weight: 388.81
• CAS Registry Number: 43200-80-2
• EC Number: 256-138-9
• SMILES: CN1CCN(CC1)C(=O)OC2C3=NC=CN=C3C(=O)N2C4=NC=C(C=C4)Cl

Properties

• Solubility: 2 mg/mL (DMSO)
• Melting point: 177 ºC

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07;GHS08 Warning
• Hazard Statements: H302+H312+H332-H302-H312-H315-H319-H332-H335-H361
• Precautionary Statements: P203-P261-P264-P264+P265-P270-P271-P280-P301+P317-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P317-P318-P319-P321-P330-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H312
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H332
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411
Reproductive toxicity	Lact.	-	H362
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	2	H373
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H336
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	1B	H360
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H331
Carcinogenicity	Carc.	2	H351

• Controlled Substance: DEA Drug Code Number: 2784

Discovory and Applicatios

Zopiclone is a well-known pharmaceutical compound primarily used as a hypnotic agent for the treatment of insomnia. This compound belongs to the class of medications known as cyclopyrrolones and is characterized by its ability to induce and maintain sleep. Since its introduction, Zopiclone has become a valuable tool in the management of sleep disorders, due to its effectiveness and relatively favorable side effect profile.

The discovery of Zopiclone dates back to the late 1970s when researchers sought to develop a new class of sleep aids that would offer an alternative to traditional benzodiazepines. The compound was first synthesized by a team of chemists at the French pharmaceutical company, Rh�ne-Poulenc, now part of the larger global pharmaceutical entity, Sanofi. Their goal was to create a medication with a more selective action on sleep without the dependence issues often associated with benzodiazepines. Zopiclone emerged as a promising candidate due to its unique chemical structure and pharmacological properties.

Zopiclone's chemical structure consists of a cyclopyrrolone ring, which differentiates it from other sedative-hypnotics. This unique structure is crucial for its activity as a sleep aid. The compound acts on the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain, specifically the GABA-A receptor, which is a well-known target for sedative medications. By enhancing the effects of GABA, Zopiclone facilitates the onset and maintenance of sleep, helping to improve sleep quality in patients suffering from insomnia.

In clinical practice, Zopiclone is typically prescribed for short-term use to manage insomnia. It is usually recommended for individuals who have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, and it is known for its rapid onset of action. The medication is often preferred over benzodiazepines because it generally has a lower potential for dependence and withdrawal symptoms. However, it is still advised to use Zopiclone for short durations to minimize the risk of tolerance and dependence.

Zopiclone's effectiveness in treating insomnia has been well-documented through numerous clinical studies. It has been shown to improve various aspects of sleep, including sleep onset latency, total sleep time, and sleep quality. The medication is also noted for its ability to reduce nighttime awakenings, which contributes to overall better sleep quality.

In addition to its primary use as a sleep aid, Zopiclone is sometimes employed in the management of other conditions related to sleep disturbances. For example, it may be used to help individuals with shift work sleep disorder or those undergoing medical treatments that disrupt normal sleep patterns.

Despite its benefits, Zopiclone is not without potential side effects. Common adverse effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and a metallic or bitter taste. In rare cases, more serious effects such as memory impairment, hallucinations, and sleepwalking can occur. Therefore, it is important for healthcare providers to carefully consider the benefits and risks when prescribing Zopiclone and to monitor patients for any adverse reactions.

Overall, Zopiclone has established itself as an important medication in the treatment of insomnia. Its distinct pharmacological profile and effectiveness make it a valuable option for individuals struggling with sleep disorders. As with any medication, careful use and monitoring are essential to ensure optimal outcomes and minimize potential risks.