Brief Answer:
Doses of drug should be tapered gradually over 6-8 weeks

Detailed Answer:
Hello thanks for asking from HCM

I can understand your problem. You are taking Zopiclone for sleep since last 6 months and have poor memory.

Zopiclone belongs to Z-drugs of hypnotics and the drug is advised to be taken for short periods of time only. Regular use results in dependence so stoppage of drug after prolonged use may result in withdrawal symptoms. Also it is known to worsen cognitive impairment in elderly people. You are having poor memory, and as per my opinion Zopilclone is worsening it.

Yes you can return to pre zopiclone times. You can reduce the doses of drugs by gradual tapering of 20-25% doses every two weeks and then completely stopping it at end of 6-8 weeks. You haven't mentioned the doses of drug you are taking but you can start from day 1 by reducing the dose. For sleep problems other medicines that don't cause dependence and are free of abuse potential like Trazodon, Doxepine can be taken. These medicines help in good sleep and don't worsen cognitive impairment.

I would advise you to consult your doctor for gradual tapering the doses of Zopiclone and to prescribe some other sleep medicine like I have mentioned. By stopping the drug you will feel free of side effects.

Thanks, hope this helps you. Please ask again for more doubts.

Take Care

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Brief Answer:
Tapering the doses gradually will prevent withdrawal symptoms

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking a follow up

This will prevent any withdrawal symptoms. Please try to cut the doses of drug and you will see improvement in your cognitive functions and memory impairment. Have good diet and try to stimulate your brain by playing brain puzzles, Sudoku etc.

Have good diet rich in proteins and complex carbohydrates and low in fats. Take PUFA (Poly unsaturated fatty acids) in diets. Supplements containing Vitamin B12, Omega-3-Fatty Acids will also help to improve your symptoms.

Thanks, hope this helps you. Wish you a good health. Take Care

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Brief Answer:
Take the drug on SOS basis for sleep

Detailed Answer:
Hello again, thanks for a follow up question

I appreciate your efforts to reduce the doses of Zopiclone and this will have good impact on your health. Your complaints of cognitive distortions will reduce. Tamezepam is a benzodiazepines and to some extent in some individuals it is also known to cause dependence and tolerance. The drug if taken regularly for long term may worsen memory problems in some susceptible individuals. You got good sleep with that drug and felt better but I would advise you to take drug on Sos basis only. Alternatively you can go for at least a week drug holiday after every 3-6 weeks and this would prevent development of dependence. Take the drugs as per prescription only. If you have more doubts regarding that medicine you can ask again.

Thanks

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