Melatonin Pharma Nord (Melatonin)

Melatonin acts on the melatonin receptor pathway to support normal sleep regulation.

• Insomnia: helps reduce sleep onset latency and improve sleep continuity in adults.
• Circadian rhythm sleep disorders: assists in aligning the internal clock with desired sleep‑wake times.
• Jet lag: facilitates faster adjustment to new time zones after trans‑meridian travel.

• Melatonin binds to MT1 and MT2 receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, mimicking the endogenous hormone released by the pineal gland during darkness. This agonist activity reduces neuronal firing that promotes wakefulness, thereby shifting circadian phase and enhancing the initiation of sleep. It also influences melatonin‑responsive gene expression that supports nocturnal physiology.

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

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness: feeling of sleepiness during daytime.
• Headache: mild to moderate headache.
• Dizziness: sensation of light‑headedness.
• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea or stomach upset.
• Fatigue: persistent lack of energy.
• Vivid dreams: unusually intense or memorable dreams.
• Dry mouth: sensation of oral dryness.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Mood changes: depression or increased anxiety in susceptible individuals.
• Hormonal effects: alterations in menstrual cycle or reproductive hormone levels (rare).
• Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure.
• Seizures: rare occurrence of convulsive episodes.

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

• Assess medical history: review sleep disorders, psychiatric conditions, and endocrine diseases before use.
• Evaluate concomitant medications: check for interactions with anticoagulants, immunosuppressants, or CNS depressants.
• Pregnancy and lactation: use only if potential benefit outweighs risk, after professional consultation.
• Age considerations: dosage may require adjustment in elderly patients due to altered metabolism.
• Driving and machinery: avoid operating vehicles or heavy equipment until individual response is known.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C in the original container, protect from moisture and light.

Melatonin may interact with other medicines, influencing its effectiveness or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants: may increase bleeding risk; monitor coagulation parameters.
• Immunosuppressants: could reduce immunosuppressive effect; close monitoring required.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, barbiturates): additive sedative effect, adjust dose if needed.
• Oral contraceptives: melatonin may alter hormone levels, monitor menstrual changes.
• Antidiabetic agents: potential impact on glucose control; check blood sugar regularly.
• Caffeine‑containing products: may diminish melatonin’s sleep‑inducing effect.