AboutNigel Simmons Expertise I am happy to answer general questions on medicines and hospital care. If possible, please use approved / chemical names rather than brands which are not internationally recognised.
Like all health professionals I am bound by a duty of care which prevents me giving detailed information about medication or treatment of people other than the questioner.
I will endeavour to help wherever possible or point towards more appropriate advice. If however your question crosses too far into patient confidentiality, I hope you will understand why I cannot answer your question.
Consider.. would you want me to discuss your care with a friend or relative without your knowledge?
Experience Registered as a UK pharmacist in 1982 and have worked in a number of hospital and health management posts around the UK. Formerly Chief Pharmacist for a 440 bed general hospital in Cambridgeshire.
Past/Present clients Previously Sysop on CompuServe UK Professionals forum.
I am currently travelling around China and need some advice.
I was just wondering if it is safe to occasionally use Zopiclone sleeping aids when taking the Lexapro medication for GAD?
I am also taking Lymecycline daily for acne.
Thanks
Answer Wesley
I'm envious! China is somewhere I would really love to visit.
There is no specific contraindication to taking zopiclone and Lexapro, indeed as Lexapro can cause insomnia in some patients, the combination may improve sleep.
My only caution is that it is best to use products like zopiclone on an irregular basis and be mindful of possible hang-over effects the next day. While occasional use of short acting hypnotics such as zopiclone can help, particularly during long flights etc. it is best to try to maintain a normal sleep pattern without medication. Reducing alcohol intake, not eating late at night and accepting that a night or two of short sleep will be caught up naturally, will all reduce the need for sedation. Regular use of sedation is unncessary and will potentially lead to a form of psychological dependence, when there is no physical or clinical need for the drug.
Enjoy the rest of your trip and I hope this helps.
