CAS: 1215518-83-4

Zopiclone is a hypnotic agent that belongs to the class of nonbenzodiazepines. It binds to the receptor site for benzodiazepine, which is located on the GABA-A receptor. The binding of zopiclone to this receptor activates it, causing an increase in chloride ion flow across the cell membrane and hyperpolarization of the cell. This leads to decreased neuronal activity in the central nervous system, which induces sleep. Zopiclone has been shown to bind to a number of other receptors as well, including those for peptides and protein kinase C. Researchers have shown that zopiclone can be used as a research tool for studying ion channels and ligand-receptor interactions.

Applications Cyclopyrrolone member of a family of non-benzodiazepine GABAA receptor agonists. This is a controlled substance (depressant) in the US but not in Canada. Sedative, hypnotic. References Noble, S., et al.: Drugs, 55, 277 (1998), Musch, B., et al.: Int. J. Clin. Psychopharmacol., 5, 147 (1990),