Sleep issues affect millions of Canadians each year. When lifestyle adjustments, sleep-hygiene strategies, and natural remedies aren’t enough, healthcare providers may consider short-term prescription options to help restore healthy sleep patterns. Two of the most commonly discussed medications are Ambien (zolpidem) and zopiclone.
While both are prescribed to treat short-term insomnia, they work in slightly different ways, have unique side-effect profiles, and may be better suited to different types of sleep difficulties. This article provides an in-depth, balanced comparison to help you understand how they differ — and why a healthcare provider might recommend one over the other.
What Are Ambien and Zopiclone?
Ambien (Zolpidem)
Ambien is the brand name for zolpidem, a sedative-hypnotic medication designed to help individuals fall asleep more easily. It works by enhancing the effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter that quiets brain activity. In Canada, zolpidem is available only by prescription and is typically recommended for short-term treatment of insomnia.
Zopiclone
Zopiclone is another sedative-hypnotic medication used widely in Canada for sleep initiation and sleep maintenance. It also acts on GABA receptors, producing a calming effect that promotes sleep. Zopiclone is one of the most commonly prescribed sleep medications in the country and is known for its longer-lasting effects compared to zolpidem.
How They Work: Mechanism of Action
Both Ambien and zopiclone act on the brain’s GABA receptors, but they bind in slightly different ways.
Ambien
- Primarily targets specific GABA-A receptor subtypes
- Promotes sleep onset more selectively
- May cause fewer next-day sedation effects for some individuals
Zopiclone
- Binds more broadly to GABA receptors
- Helps with both sleep initiation and sleep maintenance
- May stay active in the body longer, which can be beneficial for those who wake frequently at night
Effectiveness: Which Works Better?
Effectiveness depends on the nature of a person’s insomnia.
Ambien may be more helpful if you struggle with:
- Falling asleep initially
- Sleep latency (taking too long to fall asleep)
- Needing a quicker onset sleep aid
Zopiclone may be more effective if you struggle with:
- Staying asleep through the night
- Frequent nighttime awakenings
- Both onset and maintenance insomnia
Clinical studies often show comparable overall effectiveness, but tolerance, side effects, and next-day alertness can vary between the two medications.
Onset and Duration of Action
Ambien
- Onset: Fast (typically 15–30 minutes)
- Duration: Shorter (around 6–8 hours)
- Often preferred when next-day grogginess is a concern
Zopiclone
- Onset: Quick, but slightly slower than Ambien for some people
- Duration: Can last 8+ hours
- Better suited to those who need sustained sleep support
Side Effects and Safety Considerations
Both medications share several common side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, and potential impairment the next morning. However, each also has its own considerations.
Ambien Side Effects (Zolpidem)
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Sleepwalking or complex sleep behaviours (rare but possible)
- Lower risk of bitter aftertaste
Ambien is often praised for causing less next-day impairment, particularly when taken correctly and with full sleep time available.
Zopiclone Side Effects
- Metallic or bitter taste (very common)
- Dry mouth
- Daytime drowsiness
- Impaired coordination
Zopiclone’s longer duration may raise the likelihood of next-day grogginess, especially if taken late at night or without enough hours available for sleep.
Dependence and Tolerance
Both medications carry a risk of dependence if used improperly or for extended periods. Healthcare providers in Canada usually prescribe them for short-term use and monitor patients closely.
- Ambien may have a slightly lower rate of next-day psychomotor impairment
- Zopiclone has a longer history of use in Canada and is more commonly prescribed, but tolerance can develop with prolonged use
Always follow a healthcare provider’s guidance to minimize risks.
Availability in Canada
Ambien (Zolpidem)
- Available only by prescription
- Typically provided as generic zolpidem
- Less commonly prescribed in Canada compared to zopiclone
Zopiclone
- Widely prescribed across Canada
- Available in multiple strengths
- Often considered a first-line pharmaceutical option for short-term insomnia treatment
Which One Is Right for You?
The best choice depends on your specific sleep challenges, medical history, and how your body responds.
Choose a conversation with your healthcare provider if you:
- Have trouble falling asleep vs. staying asleep
- Experience side effects from one medication
- Have underlying medical or mental health conditions
- Use other medications that may interact
- Have concerns about next-day alertness or work safety
Only a licensed healthcare professional can determine which option is safest and most effective for your situation.
Key Takeaways
- Ambien (zolpidem): Fast onset, shorter duration, often better for sleep initiation.
- Zopiclone: Longer duration, works for both sleep onset and maintenance, but may cause more next-day effects.
- Both must be prescribed and monitored by a healthcare provider in Canada.
- Neither medication is designed for long-term use.
- Proper dosing, timing, and medical guidance are essential for safe use
