Kruidvat (Melatonin)

Melatonin acts on the circadian rhythm pathway to address sleep‑related disorders.

• Insomnia: helps reduce the time needed to fall asleep and may improve sleep continuity.
• General sleep disorders: supports the normalization of sleep patterns in adults with disrupted circadian rhythms.
• Jet lag: assists in adjusting the internal clock after rapid travel across time zones, facilitating quicker adaptation to new sleep schedules.

• Melatonin binds to MT1 and MT2 receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, mimicking the endogenous hormone released by the pineal gland. Activation of these G‑protein‑coupled receptors modulates intracellular signaling pathways that shift the circadian clock, promoting sleep onset and stabilizing the sleep‑wake cycle without directly inducing sedation.

Melatonin is generally well tolerated, but some users may experience adverse reactions.

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate discomfort often resolving without intervention.
• Drowsiness: excessive sleepiness during daytime, especially at higher doses.
• Gastrointestinal upset: nausea, abdominal cramps, or loose stools.
• Vivid dreams or nightmares: altered sleep architecture leading to unusual dream content.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Hormonal effects: rare cases of menstrual irregularities or decreased libido in sensitive individuals.

When considering melatonin, several safety measures should be observed.

• Pregnancy: consult a healthcare professional before use, as safety data are limited.
• Breastfeeding: discuss potential risks with a physician, as melatonin may pass into breast milk.
• Chronic use: monitor for tolerance or diminished efficacy over prolonged periods.
• Interaction with sedatives: avoid concurrent use without medical guidance due to additive sleepiness.
• Underlying disorders: assess for depression, seizure disorders, or autoimmune conditions before initiating therapy.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25°C in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Melatonin can influence the activity of several other substances.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Central nervous system depressants: may cause excessive sedation when combined.
• Anticoagulants/antiplatelet agents: potential increased risk of bleeding.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Immunosuppressants: melatonin might affect immune modulation.
• Hormonal contraceptives: could alter hormone levels.
• Antidiabetic medications: may influence blood glucose control.
• Caffeine: can counteract melatonin’s sleep‑promoting effects.