Melatonin Unimedic Pharma (Melatonin)

Melatonin acts on melatonin receptors to address sleep‑related disorders.

• Insomnia: promotes sleep onset and improves sleep continuity in adults.
• Jet lag: assists in resetting the internal clock after rapid east‑west travel, reducing sleep disturbances.
• Circadian rhythm sleep disorders: helps synchronize the sleep‑wake cycle in conditions such as non‑24‑hour rhythm disorder.
• Shift work disorder: supports adaptation to night‑shift schedules by enhancing sleep quality.

• Melatonin binds to MT1 and MT2 receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, mimicking endogenous melatonin. Activation of these G‑protein coupled receptors reduces neuronal firing during the biological night, signaling darkness and facilitating the transition to sleep. By modulating the circadian clock, it helps align physiological processes with the external light‑dark cycle, thereby promoting sleep initiation.

Adverse reactions to oral melatonin are generally mild, but they can vary among individuals.

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate discomfort often reported.
• Dizziness: transient sensation of light‑headedness.
• Daytime sleepiness: residual drowsiness after dosing.
• Nausea: occasional gastrointestinal upset.
• Vivid dreams: unusual or intense dreaming patterns.
• Mild gastrointestinal discomfort: abdominal cramping or bloating.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reactions: rash, itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• Mood changes: depression, anxiety, or irritability.
• Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure.
• Seizures: rare occurrence in predisposed individuals.
• Hallucinations: visual or auditory disturbances.
• Respiratory depression: very rare, especially with concomitant CNS depressants.

Before initiating therapy, consider the following precautions.

• Assess suitability: evaluate the patient’s specific sleep disorder and medical history.
• Avoid use with uncontrolled hypertension: melatonin may influence blood pressure regulation.
• Caution in hepatic impairment: metabolism may be altered, requiring monitoring.
• Monitor in elderly: increased sensitivity to sedative effects may occur.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and light.

Melatonin can interact with several medication classes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

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

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine): can raise melatonin plasma levels.
• CYP2C19 inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole): may increase exposure.
• Antidiabetic drugs: melatonin may affect glucose control, requiring monitoring.