Melatonin

Indications

Melatonin is used for: Disturbed biorhythms, Sleep disorders, Insomnia, Osteoporosis, In menopause to regulate sleep patterns in peri or postmenopausal women, To correct the symptoms of anorexia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children,

Adult Dose

Oral Disturbed biorhythms; Sleep disorders Adult: Usual dose 3-6 mg at bedtime.

Child Dose

Oral Disturbed biorhythms; Sleep disorders Child: 2-3 mg at bedtime, increased after 1-2 wk to 4-6 mg if needed. Max dose 10 mg.

Renal Dose

Administration

Contra Indications

Pregnancy and lactation.

Precautions

May impair ability to drive or operate machinery. Epilepsy

Pregnancy-Lactation

Pregnancy: avoid use Lactation: avoid use

Interactions

Quinolones; carbamazepine, rifampicin; fluvoxamine, 5- or 8-methoxypsoralen, cimetidine, cigarette smoking, oestrogens. Alcohol; zalepon, zolpidem, zopiclone; thioridazine, imipramine.

Side Effects

Side effects of Melatonin : Increased seizure activity; drowsiness, headache. Disruption of normal circadian rhythm. May worsen symptoms for individuals with depression.

Mode of Action

Melatonin is the hormone secreted by the pineal gland. In humans, the plasma levels of melatonin are high at night and low during the day and it appears to have a role in circardian rhythm regulation.