whether zopiclone and other "non-benzo" insomnia meds are safer than benzodiazepines for elderly patients
June 2013
We're getting questions about whether zopiclone and other "non-benzo" insomnia meds are safer than benzodiazepines for elderly patients.
Non-benzo hypnotics (Imovane, Sublinox, etc) work similarly to benzos (temazepam, etc) for treating insomnia. The big difference is that benzos also work for anxiety, seizures, and muscle spasms.
Non-benzos are somewhat safer for older patients...but they aren't without risks. They can increase the risk of delirium, falls, fractures, car accidents, and daytime drowsiness...just like benzos.
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