Switching From Zopiclone to Daridorexant: What You Need to Know

If you've relied on zopiclone for sleep, particularly for longer than originally intended, you may be wondering whether you can switch to daridorexant.

This is an important conversation but don't simply stop long-term zopiclone and replace it yourself.

Why might switching be considered?

Zopiclone is generally intended for short-term insomnia treatment because prolonged use can be associated with tolerance, physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

Daridorexant (Quviviq)works through a completely different system and is specifically licensed for chronic insomnia lasting at least three months with significant daytime impact.

This makes it reasonable for some people struggling with long-term insomnia to discuss whether their existing treatment plan remains appropriate.

Can I just stop zopiclone?

If you've used zopiclone regularly for a prolonged period, do not stop suddenly without advice.

Recent expert guidance on switching and deprescribing hypnotics recommends gradual dose reduction of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs after medium- or long-term use.

The appropriate taper depends on the dose, duration and individual patient.

Can daridorexant be used during a zopiclone reduction?

There is emerging evidence and expert guidance supporting daridorexant within structured programmes for people reducing hypnotic benzodiazepines or Z-drugs.

NICE has also published a UK implementation case study describing a specialist sleep service that has successfully transitioned patients away from dependency-causing medicines while using CBT-I principles and daridorexant where appropriate.

That doesn't create a one-size-fits-all switching schedule.

The plan needs to be individualised.

Why does CBT-I still matter?

Medication is only part of chronic insomnia management.

NICE recommends cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) as the standard first treatment, with daridorexant considered when CBT-I has not worked, is unavailable or is unsuitable.

CBT-I can also be particularly useful when reducing long-standing hypnotic medication because it addresses the behaviours and thought patterns that can maintain insomnia.

Don't treat the switch as a simple tablet swap

Before considering a change, a clinician may need to review:

• how long you have taken zopiclone
• your current dose and frequency
• previous attempts to stop
• other sedative medicines
• alcohol use
• anxiety or depression
• sleep apnoea or other sleep disorders
• your CBT-I history.

The Pharmulous approach

If you've been using sleeping tablets for longer than expected, you shouldn't feel that your only choices are continue indefinitely or suddenly stop.

A clinician-led review can look at what is driving the insomnia and whether a different long-term strategy may be appropriate.

The goal isn't simply changing tablets. It's improving sleep safely and sustainably.

References

1. NICE. Daridorexant for treating long-term insomnia. TA922.
2. NICE. Putting NICE guidance on the management of insomnia disorders into practice. Updated March 2026.
3. Palagini L et al. Clinical practice guidelines for switching or deprescribing hypnotic medications for chronic insomnia. 2025.
4. Idorsia Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd. QUVIVIQ SmPC.