Melatonin

Information about Melatonin

Melatonin Uses

Melatonin is used in insomnia and jet lag.

How Melatonin works

Melatonin is a natural hormone which regulates the sleep-wake cycle and helps you fall asleep.

Common side effects of Melatonin

Headache, Sleepiness
CONTENT DETAILS
Written By
Dr. Balshine Singh Kanwar
MD, MBBS
Reviewed By
Dr. Khushbu Goel
DM, MD
Last updated
14 Jun 2022 | 06:59 PM (UTC)

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Expert advice for Melatonin

  • Take it with or without food or at least 2 hours before bedtime. 
  • Some lifestyle habits for good sleep:
    • Avoid strenuous activity before bedtime.
    • Avoid caffeine products at night.
    • Avoid extreme temperature like too cold or too hot.
    • Prefer dim light at nighttime.
    • Try some relaxation therapy.
    • Prefer couch to watch tv or read a book rather than a bed.
  • It may affect the blood sugar level. Take caution while taking this medicine if you are suffering from diabetes.
  • It may cause dizziness. Don't drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you. 
  • Smoking may make Melatonin less effective since it can increase the metabolism (breakdown) of it by the liver.
  • Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it may decrease the activity of drug. 
  • Inform your doctor if you are taking seizures medicine as Melatonin may increase the frequency of Seizures.
  • Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to Melatonin, suffering from liver or kidney, or if you have an intolerance to some sugars.  

Frequently asked questions for Melatonin

Melatonin

Q. What are the advantages of Melatonin over other sleep agents?

The advantages of Melatonin over other sleep agents include that this medicine does not make the patient develop tolerance (after some time of use of Melatonin, it is no longer effective at the same dose). Unlike other similar hypnotic drugs, Melatonin does not cause unwanted effects such as hangovers and physical dependence.

Q. What are the natural ways to treat insomnia?

There are several natural ways which may help you treat your insomnia. These may include avoiding caffeine and nicotine, especially late in the day. While daily exercise is beneficial to sleep, avoid exercising four hours before bedtime. Avoiding large meals in the evening and avoiding taking naps can also help treat insomnia. You can try going to sleep and waking up at the same time each day. Try to maintain a comfortable temperature in your bedroom and make the bedroom as dark as possible. Setting aside a time to relax before bed and using relaxation techniques can also prove effective.

Q. Does Melatonin cause weight gain?

Yes, it may cause weight gain, but it is uncommon. Consult your doctor if you are concerned about putting on weight after taking Melatonin.

Q. Can I take Melatonin every night?

Yes, you can take it every night but consult your doctor for the duration of treatment. If you are taking it for jet lag, you will be suggested to take a minimum effective dose for 5 days only. In other cases of insomnia, it can be taken for a little longer, for about 3 months.

Q. Does Melatonin affect blood pressure?

Yes, Melatonin may cause an increase in blood pressure though it is an uncommon side effect. Therefore, if you are hypertensive, keep a watch on your blood pressure during treatment with Melatonin. Consult your doctor as soon as you notice a change in blood pressure.

Q. Can I take Melatonin twice a day?

Usually, Melatonin is taken once a day, before going to bed. Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the body which peaks to its highest levels at night.

Q. Can Melatonin cause palpitations?

Yes, Melatonin can cause palpitations but only rarely. If you have any concerns regarding palpitations, consult your doctor.

Q. Can Melatonin cause withdrawal symptoms?

No, unlike other medicines used to help people fall asleep, Melatonin does not cause withdrawal symptoms.

Q. Can Melatonin cause abnormal dreams? If yes, then why does it happen?

Abnormal dreams is an uncommon side effect of Melatonin. The reason for abnormal dreams is not known, but Melatonin increases duration of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. This phase of sleep is usually associated with dreams. This increase in duration of REM could be the reason for abnormal dreams that occur while taking Melatonin.

Q. Can Melatonin be used for jet lag?

Yes, Melatonin tablets can be used for treatment of jet-lag in adults. The biological day and night rhythm can be disturbed by travelling to countries lying in different time zones. This is known as jet-lag. The symptoms and their severity vary from person to person, but are generally worse and last longer the more time zones are crossed. Melatonin tablets can help restore the normal day-and-night rhythm and reduce the symptoms.

Q. Can Melatonin wake you up?

Early morning awakening is a rare side effect of Melatonin. If this is persistent and is bothering you, consult your doctor.

Q. Can Melatonin make you tired the next day?

Yes, tiredness may occur, but it is an uncommon side effect of Melatonin. Tell your doctor if this side effect worries you.

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