Melatal (Melatonin)

Melatal is a melatonin receptor agonist that addresses disorders of the circadian rhythm and related sleep disturbances.

• Insomnia: helps initiate and maintain sleep in individuals with difficulty falling asleep.
• Jet lag: reduces the time required to adjust to new time zones after rapid travel.
• Delayed sleep phase disorder: advances the timing of sleep onset for those with a shifted sleep schedule.

• Melatonin acts as an agonist at the MT1 and MT2 receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, the central regulator of circadian rhythms. By binding these receptors, it mimics the endogenous hormone’s signal that night is approaching, thereby promoting sleep onset and helping to synchronize the internal clock with the external light‑dark cycle.

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

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate pain often occurring after ingestion.
• Dizziness: transient sensation of light‑headedness.
• Nausea: occasional stomach upset.
• Daytime sleepiness: residual drowsiness if taken too late.
• Irritability: mood changes in sensitive individuals.
• Vivid dreams: unusual or intense dreaming patterns.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Severe depression: worsening mood or suicidal thoughts.
• Seizures: rare occurrence in predisposed patients.
• Hormonal effects: changes in menstrual cycle or libido.
• Liver enzyme elevation: abnormal liver function tests.
• Blood pressure changes: unexpected hypertension or hypotension.

When considering melatonin therapy, several safety measures should be observed.

• Pregnancy: consult a healthcare professional before use.
• Breastfeeding: discuss potential risks with a physician.
• Elderly patients: start with the lowest effective dose and monitor response.
• Underlying medical conditions: assess liver or kidney impairment prior to initiation.
• Drug interactions: review all concurrent medications for possible interactions.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and light.

Melatonin can interact with other medicines, requiring attention to avoid adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants: may increase bleeding risk.
• Immunosuppressants: could reduce their effectiveness.
• CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine): may raise melatonin plasma levels.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines): additive sedation.
• Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs): potential for serotonin syndrome.
• Oral contraceptives: may alter hormone metabolism.