Melatan (Melatonin)

Melatan is used to address sleep‑related disorders by influencing the melatonin pathway.

• Insomnia: helps reduce sleep onset latency and improve sleep continuity in adults.
• Jet lag: assists in realigning the circadian rhythm after rapid east‑west travel.
• Shift work disorder: supports sleep scheduling for individuals working irregular hours.

• Melatonin acts as an agonist at the MT1 and MT2 receptors located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus. By binding these G‑protein‑coupled receptors, it mimics the endogenous hormone’s action, signaling darkness and promoting the initiation of sleep. This receptor activation helps synchronize the internal circadian clock with external light‑dark cycles, thereby facilitating sleep onset and adjusting the rhythm after time‑zone shifts.

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

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate pain often occurring after the first dose.
• Dizziness: transient light‑headedness, especially when standing quickly.
• Nausea: occasional stomach upset or queasiness.
• Daytime sleepiness: feeling drowsy during waking hours.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Severe mood changes: depression or vivid hallucinations.
• Abnormal heart rhythm: rare cases of tachycardia or bradycardia.
• Persistent vomiting: prolonged gastrointestinal distress.

When considering melatonin therapy, several safety aspects should be reviewed.

• Assess renal function: dosage may need adjustment in severe renal impairment.
• Evaluate age: elderly patients may be more sensitive to sedative effects.
• Avoid concurrent alcohol: alcohol can enhance drowsiness and impair coordination.
• Consult healthcare provider if pregnant or breastfeeding: safety data are limited.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Melatonin can interact with other medicines, altering its effectiveness or increasing side‑effect risk.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): melatonin may increase bleeding tendency.
• Immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine): potential alteration of drug levels.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Central nervous system depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines): additive sedation.
• CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine): increased melatonin plasma concentrations.
• Oral contraceptives: possible reduction in contraceptive efficacy.
• Antihypertensive agents: melatonin may modestly lower blood pressure.