Melatonine Lp Arrow (Melatonin)

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

• Insomnia: helps reduce sleep latency and improve total sleep time in adults with difficulty staying asleep.
• Sleep onset difficulties: facilitates faster transition to sleep when falling asleep is problematic.
• Jet lag: assists in re‑synchronising the internal clock after rapid time‑zone travel, reducing daytime sleepiness.

• Melatonin binds to MT1 and MT2 receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, mimicking endogenous melatonin. This activation modulates the circadian clock, decreases neuronal firing in wake‑promoting areas, and promotes the physiological processes that initiate sleep, thereby facilitating sleep onset and maintenance.

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

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Drowsiness: may persist into the next morning if taken late.
• Dizziness: transient episodes reported.
• Nausea: occasional gastrointestinal upset.
• Vivid dreams: occasional alteration in dream patterns.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Mood changes: depression or irritability in susceptible individuals.
• Hormonal effects: menstrual irregularities or decreased libido.
• Severe hypotension: rare drop in blood pressure causing faintness.
• Persistent daytime sleepiness: interfering with daily activities.

Before using Melatonin, consider the following safety measures.

• Pregnancy: consult a healthcare professional; safety data are limited.
• Breastfeeding: discuss potential exposure with a clinician.
• Pediatric use: avoid unless specifically prescribed for a diagnosed sleep disorder.
• Concomitant CNS depressants: monitor for additive sedative effects.
• Underlying medical conditions: assess cardiovascular, psychiatric, or endocrine disorders before initiation.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Melatonin may interact with several medication classes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants: increased risk of bleeding.
• Immunosuppressants: potential reduction in efficacy.
• Antidiabetic agents: may enhance hypoglycaemic effect.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Sedatives or hypnotics: additive sleepiness.
• Oral contraceptives: possible alteration of hormone levels.
• Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs): may affect serotonin pathways.
• Caffeine-containing products: may diminish melatonin's sleep‑promoting effect.