Zopiclone is a widely used non-benzodiazepine hypnotic prescribed for short-term treatment of insomnia. In countries like India, where generic pharmaceuticals are a cornerstone of affordable care, several zopiclone brands have emerged as popular choices — most notably ZOP 7.5, Zopicon, and Zopisign.
All three contain the same active ingredient — zopiclone — usually at a 7.5 mg strength, yet differences in manufacturer, formulation, and availability can influence user preference. This article compares these brands in terms of quality, cost, user experience, and sourcing reliability to help users make informed decisions.
1. Overview of Each Brand
- Manufacturer: HAB Pharmaceuticals & Research Ltd.
- Strength: 7.5 mg
- Form: Tablet (scored, film-coated)
- Distribution: Widely exported to the UK, EU, and Australia
- Reputation: One of the most recognized Indian brands in the zopiclone category
- Manufacturer: HAB Pharmaceuticals (same as ZOP 7.5) or sometimes Intas Pharmaceuticals (depending on the batch/distributor)
- Strength: 7.5 mg
- Form: Tablet
- Distribution: Sold in South Asia, UK, and online pharmacies
- Reputation: Considered a near-identical twin of ZOP 7.5 with subtle manufacturing differences
- Manufacturer: HAB Pharmaceuticals (notably active in UK online markets)
- Strength: 7.5 mg and 10 mg versions available
- Form: Tablet, often in blister packs of 10
- Distribution: Available through online exporters; popular among international buyers
- Reputation: Marketed more aggressively in the overseas market, especially in “no-prescription” pharmacy circuits
2. Formulation and Effectiveness
All three brands deliver the same sedative-hypnotic effects by enhancing GABA activity in the brain, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
| Feature | ZOP 7.5 | Zopicon | Zopisign |
|---|---|---|---|
| Onset of Action | ~30–45 mins | ~30–45 mins | ~30–45 mins |
| Duration of Sleep Aid | 6–8 hours | 6–8 hours | 6–8 hours |
| Active Ingredient Purity | High | High | High |
| Subjective “Metallic” Taste | Moderate | Moderate | Slightly less in some batches |
Note: The “metallic aftertaste” is a known side effect of zopiclone itself, not specific to the brand.
3. Pricing and Packaging
Zopiclone brands from India are known for being inexpensive, with only marginal differences in price per tablet.
| Brand | Price (USD equivalent) | Packaging | Export Appeal |
|---|---|---|---|
| ZOP 7.5 | $0.30–$0.50 per tab | 10-tab blister packs | Moderate–High |
| Zopicon | $0.25–$0.45 per tab | 10 or 14-tab packs | Moderate |
| Zopisign | $0.35–$0.55 per tab | 10-tab strips (well-branded) | High |
Zopisign may be slightly more expensive but is often chosen by international buyers for its packaging integrity and stronger brand recognition abroad.
4. User Experience (Anecdotal Reports)
ZOP 7.5:
“Works as intended, knocks me out within 45 minutes. Slight aftertaste. Reliable every time.”
– Anonymous review from UK insomnia forum
Zopicon:
“Feels identical to ZOP 7.5. May be a bit more bitter, but still very effective. Used it for months without issue.”
– Reddit user in r/insomnia
Zopisign:
“My favorite zopiclone brand. Comes well packaged, kicks in quickly, and doesn’t make me feel groggy in the morning.”
– Patient review from online pharmacy blog
5. Legality and Availability
In most countries, zopiclone is a prescription-only medication, including:
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- Canada
- Most of the European Union
However, Indian generic versions like ZOP, Zopicon, and Zopisign are often accessible through gray-market online pharmacies, which may offer them without requiring a prescription. This raises concerns about:
- Legal import limits
- Customs seizures
- Authenticity of non-pharmacy sellers
Warning: Always verify the legitimacy of the source when ordering internationally, as counterfeit zopiclone does exist.
6. Which Brand Is Best?
| Scenario | Recommended Brand |
|---|---|
| You want consistency & brand strength | ZOP 7.5 |
| You’re looking for budget value | Zopicon |
| You want international-friendly packaging | Zopisign |
| You need a higher strength (10 mg) | Zopisign |
| You’re concerned with morning grogginess | Zopicon or Zopisign (dose-dependent) |
Final Thoughts
While ZOP 7.5, Zopicon, and Zopisign are all chemically equivalent in terms of active ingredient and expected sedation, subtle differences in user preference, pricing, packaging, and regional access can shape which brand is “best” for you.
For most users:
- ZOP 7.5 is the gold-standard.
- Zopicon offers similar effects with excellent value.
- Zopisign is ideal for international users looking for discreet, quality packaging.
Regardless of brand, zopiclone should be used only under medical supervision and for short-term insomnia — ideally no longer than 2 to 4 weeks.