Zopiclone and eszopiclone (Lunesta) are the same compound — eszopiclone is the purified active stereoisomer of zopiclone. This 2026 guide covers the GABA mechanism, correct dosage by strength, why the metallic taste occurs, dependence and withdrawal risks, the next-day driving warning, complex sleep behaviour FDA boxed warning, and a full 4-Z-drug comparison table.

Zopiclone and Zolpidem are both Z-drug sleep medicines with the same mechanism — but Zopiclone lasts 5 to 6 hours while Zolpidem lasts only 2 to 3 hours. This makes Zopiclone better for sleep maintenance and middle-of-night waking, while Zolpidem causes less morning grogginess. This complete comparison covers half-life, side effects, insomnia type matching, and the key safety rules both medicines share.