Melatonin Wockhardt (Melatonin)

Melatonin acts on the melatonin receptor pathway to address sleep‑related disorders.

• Insomnia: helps initiate sleep and improve sleep continuity in adults with difficulty falling asleep.
• Circadian rhythm sleep disorders: assists in realigning the internal clock for shift‑work or delayed sleep phase syndrome.
• Jet lag: reduces the time needed to adjust to new time zones after long‑distance travel.

• Melatonin binds to MT1 and MT2 receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, mimicking the endogenous hormone. Activation of these G‑protein‑coupled receptors modulates circadian signaling, promotes the onset of sleep, and helps synchronize the body’s internal clock with external light‑dark cycles.

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

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate pain often reported after ingestion.
• Dizziness: transient sensation of light‑headedness.
• Daytime sleepiness: residual drowsiness if taken too late.
• Nausea: occasional stomach upset.
• Vivid dreams: unusual or intense dreaming patterns.
• Mild gastrointestinal upset: abdominal discomfort or loose stools.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• Severe rash: Stevens‑Johnson‑type skin eruption.
• Depression or mood changes: worsening depressive symptoms.
• Seizures: rare occurrence in predisposed individuals.
• Hallucinations: visual or auditory disturbances.
• Abnormal heart rhythm: rare cardiac arrhythmias.

When considering Melatonin, several safety measures should be observed.

• Diagnosis confirmation: ensure the sleep disorder is appropriately diagnosed before use.
• Concomitant CNS depressants: avoid combining with other sedatives without medical guidance.
• Hepatic impairment: use caution in patients with liver dysfunction.
• Pediatric use: not recommended for children unless specifically directed by a clinician.
• Operating machinery: refrain from driving or operating heavy equipment if drowsiness occurs.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Melatonin may interact with other medicines, requiring attention to potential effects.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Benzodiazepines: additive sedative effect may cause excessive drowsiness.
• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): melatonin can enhance anticoagulant activity, increasing bleeding risk.
• Immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine): may reduce immunosuppressive efficacy.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Oral contraceptives: possible alteration of hormone levels.
• Antihypertensives: melatonin may lower blood pressure modestly.
• Antidiabetic agents: potential impact on glucose control.
• Antidepressants (SSRIs): may increase risk of serotonin syndrome.
• Caffeine: can diminish melatonin’s sleep‑promoting effect.