Treatment of Insomnia by Zopiclone in Older Adults Hospitalized in a Geriatric Hospital: A Retrospective Study

Background: Insomnia is a significant public health problem that can affect up to 50% of older adults. Pharmacological treatments are commonly used such as benzodiazepines (BZD) and related Z-drug zopiclone. Objectives: The objective of this study was to investigate the use of zopiclone under real-life clinical conditions. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of older patients was conducted in a French geriatric hospital. The eligible participants included patients aged 65 years and older who had received zopiclone as a hypnotic. The presence of indication, the dosage and duration of zopiclone, the reevaluation of the treatment, the reason for discontinuation, and the combination with BZD were assessed. Results: The study included 30 subjects (mean age 84.6 ± 9.3 years), 90% of whom received zopiclone 3.5 mg and 10% zopiclone 7.5 mg. In 60% of cases, no indication of insomnia was found. At discharge, more patients received a combination of zopiclone and BZD. The drug reassessment was initiated in only nine patients. Conclusion: The treatment of insomnia with zopiclone is usually prescribed for long-term periods in older adults with less need for reevaluation. More long-term data on side effects and therapeutic efficacy are needed in routine clinical practice.