Explore what melatonin is, how the melatonin tablets work, the benefits and side effects of melatonin.
What is melatonin and how does it work?
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. The levels of melatonin fluctuate in a 24 hour period. Melatonin production is reduced in bright light and the levels increase at night. The levels begin to rise about 2 hours before sleep and help establish sleep conditions. Melatonin is used to treat insomnia, a condition where individuals have trouble staying asleep or trouble falling asleep.
It can help reset the ‘body clock’ and help improve sleep quality. With melatonin the body promotes the sleep wake cycle allowing for deep REM sleep. It is commonly used as a sedative to make one sleepy but can also be helpful to set the clock to a different time in conditions like jet lag, shift work or sleep problems such as delayed sleep phase.
Availability
Though around the world it can be found as a dietary supplement in Australia it is available under medical supervision. It can be supplied over the counter for those above 55 years of age and with a prescription for others. Some compounding pharmacies also make different strength liquid melatonin for children which also require a prescription.
Dosage
The daily doses of 0.5mg to 5mg are effective though sleep onset may be quicker at the higher doses. The common dosage preparation in Australia is 2mg. Circadin (melatonin tablets) is a low release form to last throughout the night.
If the goal is to enhance the quality of sleep, take it about 30 minutes to an house before bedtime. But if the aim is to establish a consistent sleep pattern, it’s better to take it 2-3 hours before going to bed.
Benefits of Melatonin tablets
Sleep Aid
These are used all around the world to aid in managing sleep problems like insomnia. They can be beneficial for adjusting your sleep schedule, which can be disrupted by shift work or when you’re crossing time zones while traveling. Essentially, they help reset your body’s internal clock.
Seasonal depression
It is a common condition that affects 10% of the population worldwide. It’s a form of depression that shows up during the same season each year, typically in late autumn and early winter. Seasonal depression might have something to do with changes in your body’s internal clock. Some research suggests that melatonin could potentially ease the symptoms.
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
Research has found that melatonin could act as an antioxidant, which means it can help protect the cells from harm caused by oxidative stress. It’s rich in antioxidants, which are good for the eyes. Some studies even indicate it might be useful in treating glaucoma and macular degeneration. Other research suggests that it could have anti-inflammatory effects that are beneficial in dealing with various health issues.
Other benefits
It is involved with managing immune function, blood pressure and cortisol levels. Furthermore it may block stomach acid and decrease production of nitric acid and in turn help relieve acid reflux.
Side effects of Melatonin tablets
Melatonin is safe for short term use. Unlike many other sleep medications that can lead to dependency, melatonin is less likely to cause that problem. However, if you use it repeatedly for a long time, it might become less effective. Like any supplement or medication, it is not entirely free of potential side effects.
Common
The common melatonin side effects include headaches, dizziness, nausea and in some people daytime drowsiness. As the effects of melatonin differ in individuals, it is best to avoid driving within a few hours of taking it, in case it causes drowsiness.
Rare
The less common or rare melatonin side effects are experiencing vivid dreams or nightmares, feeling of depression, decreased appetite and confusion or disorientation.
Interactions
Melatonin tablets may interact with other certain medications such as antidepressants, blood thinning medication and some blood pressure medicines. While also interfering with certain immune suppressants and diabetes medicines.
Talk to a doctor
Before starting any treatment it is important to speak to a health care provider about the sleep concerns one may experience and if this is the best option for them. Melatonin tablets alone may not resolve the sleep problem and learning how to sleep better at night may be necessary. These include lifestyle changes such as good nutrition, sleep hygiene and daily exercise to achieve a healthy improved sleep cycle. Begin with a consultation today to determine the best course of action for your health.
