Can You Take Diazepam with Zopiclone?
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database
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Avoid — diazepam and zopiclone together cause additive CNS and respiratory depression, substantially increasing overdose risk.
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Is it safe to take Diazepam with Zopiclone?
Diazepam and zopiclone both act on GABA receptors and are powerful central nervous system depressants. Taking them together significantly amplifies sedation and respiratory depression. This combination has been implicated in fatal accidental overdoses. Neither drug should be taken with the other without very specific medical justification, and they are almost never prescribed together. The combination is also associated with a substantially higher risk of dependence.
How do Diazepam and Zopiclone interact?
Both diazepam (benzodiazepine) and zopiclone (Z-drug) bind to GABA-A receptors, enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission. Their combined effect on GABA-A receptors is additive, increasing CNS depression, sedation, and respiratory suppression beyond what either drug causes alone.
Data sourced from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) drug label database: OpenFDA drug label data — diazepam and zopiclone drug labels.
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Everyone, but especially elderly patients, those with respiratory conditions, and those using alcohol or any other sedating substance.
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What if I've already taken Diazepam and Zopiclone?
If you feel very drowsy, have slow or difficult breathing, or cannot be roused, call 999 immediately. Keep others informed of what you have taken.
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Not sure if this combination is safe for your specific situation?
HealthLabs.com lets you check liver enzyme or kidney function levels before combining medications long-term — no GP referral needed.
Check your levels at HealthLabs →Always speak to your pharmacist or GP for personalised medical advice. Affiliate link — we may earn a commission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take zopiclone and diazepam together?
No. Both act on the same receptors and the combination greatly increases the risk of dangerous over-sedation and breathing problems.
Is zopiclone the same as diazepam?
No, but they work on similar receptors. Zopiclone (a Z-drug) is prescribed for insomnia; diazepam (a benzodiazepine) is prescribed for anxiety or muscle spasm. Both are sedating and both carry dependence risk.
What can I take for sleep if I already take diazepam?
This is a question for your GP — they can assess whether your diazepam is still appropriate and advise on safe sleep management. Never add zopiclone or any sedative on top of diazepam without medical advice.
How dangerous is mixing sleeping tablets and diazepam?
Very dangerous. Both suppress the brain's drive to breathe. Together, they can cause breathing to stop entirely during sleep, particularly in people who already have respiratory problems or who drink alcohol.