Melatonin
Description
Melatonin is a natural hormone secreted by the pineal gland that helps to maint
ain the wake-sleep cycle. As a medicine, it is used in some sleep-related issues.
Uses
It is used to decrease the jet lag, adjust the sleep cycle and treat shift work disorders and general insomnia.
Contraindications
When should one not use Melatonin
Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to this medicine or its ingredients.
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Sleepiness
- Headache
- Irritability
- Restlessness
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Melatonin during pregnancy?
A:
It is not recommended in pregnancy. It may cause adverse effects on the unborn baby and the patient is advised to use contraception if taking this medicine.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Melatonin while breastfeeding?
A:
It passes into breast milk and can cause adverse effects in breastfed babies. The patient is advised not to breastfeed if taking this medicine.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Melatonin?
A:
It may cause drowsiness and decreased alertness. It is advised not to take this medicine before driving.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Melatonin?
A:
Alcohol decreases the effectiveness of this medicine, therefore avoid drinking alcohol if you are taking this medicine.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You are lactose intolerance
- You have a habit of smoking, as doing so will decrease Melatonin's effectiveness. Components present in tobacco smoke increases Melatonin breakdown in liver
- You have liver disease or kidney disease
- You are suffering from autoimmune disease
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
Melatonin is synthesized from the Amino Acid Tryptophan and released in the blood and Cerebrospinal fluid that sends the message to the Melatonin receptor in the brain and other parts of the body to control the wake-sleep cycle....
Interactions
Interactions with other medicines
- Fluvoxamine (used for the treatment of depression and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) as it may increase the effect of Melatonin
- Caffeine
- Nifedipine
- Estrogens (used in contraceptives or hormone replacement preparations), as it may increase the impact of Melatonin
- Quinolones (used in the treatment of bacterial infections), as Quinolones may increase the effect of Melatonin
- Benzodiazepines and Nonbenzodiazepine Hypnotics (medicines used to induce sleep, e.g. Midazolam, Temazepam and Zaleplon, Zolpidem, Zopiclone), as Melatonin may enhance the sedative effect of such medicines and may enhance specific side effects of Zolpidem (morning sleepiness, nausea, confusion)...
- Warfarin (anticoagulants) as Melatonin may influence the outcome of the anticoagulant
Interactions with food items
This medicine should be taken with food. Do not take caffeine with Melatonin as it may reduce its effect.
Dietary Restrictions
No data available.
Dosage
Overdose
If you take more than the usual dose by mistake, consult your doctor. Overdose may cause sleepiness, headache, etc.
Missed a Dose
- If you forget to take a tablet at bedtime and wake during the night, you may take the forgotten dose
- But do not double the dose to catch up the missed dose
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Ravi Kakarla
MBBS, MBA
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking this medicine?
A: Give a detailed account of your medical and surgical history. Also, mention to your doctor all the prescription and non-prescription medicines, herbal preparations and nutritional supplements that you may be taking before starting this medication.
Q: What should I avoid while taking Melatonin?
A: Avoid driving or operating machinery after taking this medicine for at least 4 hours. Do not take alcohol while on Melatonin.
Q: Can this medicine be taken in all cases of sleep related problems?
A: No, this medicine should be taken with doctor’s advice if the cause of sleep problems is related to the natural hormone Melatonin.
References
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Disclaimer
The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.
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