Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone secreted by the pineal gland in humans. It helps to regulate other hormones and maintains the body’s internal clock. Melatonin is available as a hormonal supplement and is used to ease insomnia, reduce jet lag, boost the immune system, protect cells from free-radical damage and prevent cancer. As with any supplement, there may be side effects and interactions with other medications. The website ‘Melatonin Side Effects Info‘ list potential side effects including: headaches, nausea, depression, nightmares or vivid dreams, irritability, abdominal cramps and dizziness.
There are studies that suggest melatonin supplements may help people with temporary insomnia resulting from an interruption in the normal sleep cycle. This interruption may be due to jet lag, changing work shifts, the aging process or some mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia. Studies have shown that melatonin is effective in reducing the time it takes to fall asleep, increasing the number of sleeping hours and improving daytime alertness. Some evidence suggests that melatonin may work best for people over the age of 55 suffering from insomnia. This may be due to the fact that as the body ages natural melatonin levels decrease.
Melatonin has been shown to be effective in elderly people suffering from benzodiazepine withdrawal. Taking controlled-release melatonin improved sleep quality in those stopping or tapering off of medications such as Valium, Xanax or Ativan. It has also been used to help with the sleep problems associated with menopause; however it does not seem to help with other menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes.
Melatonin levels have been associated with breast cancer risk; women with breast cancer tend to have lower melatonin levels than those without cancer. Laboratory studies have shown that low levels of melatonin stimulate the growth of some types of cancer cells, while adding melatonin to these cells slows their growth. One study showed that melatonin supplements given to women seven days prior to beginning chemotherapy for breast cancer prevented the lowering of platelets in the blood; a common complication of chemotherapy that can lead to bleeding. Women with breast cancer should consult their doctor before taking a melatonin supplement.
Studies have also shown that men with prostate cancer show lower melatonin levels than men without the disease. In laboratory studies, melatonin blocks the growth of prostate cancer cells; in one very small study, melatonin combined with conventional medical treatment improved the survival rate of men with metastatic prostate cancer. More research is needed before melatonin can be recommended in the treatment of prostate cancer.
Melatonin is available over-the-counter in tablets, capsules, cream and lozenges that dissolve under the tongue. There is currently no recommended dose for melatonin supplements; different people will have different responses to its effects. The best approach for any condition is to begin with a very low dose and use the lowest amount possible to achieve the desired effect. Your doctor can help you determine the appropriate dose for your particular situations, and when and how to increase the dosage. Tell your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are currently taking; this will make him or her aware of any possible drug interactions.
