Melatonin Pharma Nord (Melatonin)

Melatonin acts on melatonin receptors to help normalize the sleep‑wake rhythm.

• Insomnia: assists in initiating and maintaining sleep during nighttime periods.
• Sleep‑wake rhythm disorders: helps align the internal circadian clock with external light‑dark cycles.
• Delayed sleep phase syndrome: facilitates earlier sleep onset and improves daytime alertness.

• Melatonin binds to MT1 and MT2 receptors located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus and peripheral tissues, mimicking the endogenous hormone. Activation of these G‑protein‑coupled receptors modulates circadian signaling pathways, reduces neuronal firing during the night, and promotes the physiological processes that lead to sleep onset and maintenance.

Melatonin is generally well tolerated, but adverse reactions can occur.

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate discomfort.
• Dizziness: transient sensation of light‑headedness.
• Daytime sleepiness: residual drowsiness after dosing.
• Nausea: occasional stomach upset.
• Vivid dreams: intensified dream recall.
• Abdominal discomfort: mild stomach pain.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reactions: rash, itching, or angioedema.
• Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure.
• Mood alterations: depression or agitation.
• Seizures: rare occurrence in predisposed individuals.
• Hepatic dysfunction: abnormal liver enzymes.
• Respiratory depression: especially when combined with other CNS depressants.

Use melatonin with appropriate clinical oversight and consider patient‑specific factors.

• Confirm diagnosis: ensure the sleep disorder is appropriately identified before initiating therapy.
• Pediatric use: avoid unless specifically prescribed by a qualified clinician.
• Daytime drowsiness: monitor patients for impaired alertness, especially when operating machinery.
• Drug interaction review: assess concomitant medications for additive sedative effects.
• Pregnancy and lactation: prescribe only if potential benefits outweigh potential risks.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and light.

Melatonin may interact with several medication classes; monitoring is advised.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): may increase bleeding risk.
• Immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine): may alter melatonin metabolism.
• CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines): additive sedative effect.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely):\n- Oral contraceptives: melatonin may reduce contraceptive efficacy.

• Antidepressants (SSRIs): potential increase in serotonergic side effects.
• Antihypertensives: possible enhancement of blood‑pressure‑lowering action.