Melatonin
Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It plays a critical role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm. Melatonin levels typically rise in the evening, remain high during the night, and decrease in the morning. Synthetic melatonin is available as a dietary supplement and is commonly used to treat sleep disorders and various other conditions related to the body's internal clock.Melatonin is primarily indicated for: -Insomnia, particularly in cases of disrupted sleep-wake cycles. -Jet lag, to help adjust the body's internal clock when traveling across time zones. -Delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS), a condition where sleep is delayed by two or more hours beyond the conventional bedtime. -Sleep problems in children with developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). -Shift work sleep disorder, to aid individuals whose jobs require them to work outside the typical 9-to-5 schedule. -Anxiety before and after surgery, as it may help reduce preoperative anxiety and improve postoperative sleep.
The dosage of melatonin can vary based on the condition being treated and the individual’s response to the supplement. General guidelines are as follows: -Insomnia in adults: 0.5 to 5 mg taken 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. -Jet lag: 0.5 to 5 mg at bedtime on the day of arrival and for several days thereafter. -Delayed sleep phase syndrome: 0.5 to 3 mg taken a few hours before the desired bedtime. -Children with developmental disorders: 1 to 6 mg taken 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime, under medical supervision.
Melatonin should not be used by individuals who have: -Hypersensitivity or allergy to melatonin or any component of the formulation. -Autoimmune diseases, as melatonin may exacerbate the condition. -Severe liver disease, as the liver metabolizes melatonin. -Pregnancy or breastfeeding, unless prescribed by a healthcare provider, due to insufficient safety data.
-Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Use only under medical advice. -Patients with epilepsy: Melatonin can potentially lower the seizure threshold. -Individuals taking anticoagulants or blood pressure medications: Melatonin may interact with these drugs. -Diabetic patients: Melatonin may affect blood sugar levels. -Individuals with depression or mood disorders: Melatonin can influence mood and should be used cautiously.
Common side effects of melatonin include: -Drowsiness -Headache -Dizziness -Nausea -Vivid dreams or nightmares -Short-term feelings of depression Less common side effects may include: -Daytime drowsiness -Abdominal cramps -Irritability
Melatonin can interact with various medications, including: -Anticoagulants and anti-platelet drugs: Increased risk of bleeding. -Anticonvulsants: Altered seizure control. -Contraceptives: Increased melatonin levels. -Diabetes medications: Potential changes in blood glucose control. -Immunosuppressants: Possible effects on immune function. -CNS depressants (like benzodiazepines): Enhanced sedative effects.
