Melatonin is a synthetic hormone used to regulate the sleep-wake cycle and treat insomnia.
Melatonin is a synthetically produced hormone primarily utilized to regulate sleep-wake cycles and address conditions like jet lag, delayed sleep phase syndrome, and insomnia. It may also be used to alleviate pre-operative anxiety. While generally safe, common side effects are typically mild, including drowsiness, headache, and dizziness. Dosage varies, typically ranging from 0.3 to 10mg daily, depending on the specific application and individual needs.
Key Information
Inside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
0.3-10mg daily
Source Type
synthetic
Production Process
Melatonin is typically synthesized in a laboratory through a chemical process involving tryptophan as a precursor.
Use Type
Inside BodyPotential Benefits
Sleep Onset refers to the ability to fall asleep faster. This improves sleep quality and reduces daytime sleepiness.
Alleviates jet lag symptoms like fatigue and insomnia by restoring a normal sleep-wake cycle after rapid time zone travel, improving overall well-being. Addresses circadian rhythm disruption.
Sleep aids enhance sleep quality, duration, and ease of initiation by regulating the sleep-wake cycle and influencing neurotransmitters like GABA, melatonin, and serotonin. This promotes restful sleep, leading to improved daytime alertness.
Melatonin helps regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, improving sleep quality and reducing sleep latency. It is particularly helpful for those with circadian rhythm disorders or experiencing jet lag.
Melatonin supplementation helps alleviate jet lag by resetting the body's internal clock and promoting sleep. This reduces symptoms like fatigue and difficulty sleeping after crossing time zones.
Melatonin supplementation can help individuals with Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (DSPS) advance their sleep phase, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up earlier. This is achieved by mimicking the body's natural melatonin release.
Melatonin may reduce anxiety before surgery by promoting a calming effect on the central nervous system. Studies suggest it can be as effective as some prescription medications for pre-operative anxiety.
Possible Side Effects
Drowsiness is a state of impaired alertness characterized by a strong desire to sleep and reduced responsiveness. It can cause difficulty concentrating, decreased reaction time, and impaired judgment.
Dizziness is a sensation of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or vertigo that can arise from multiple causes. It can lead to falls or loss of consciousness in some cases.
Headache is pain in the head ranging from mild to severe, potentially with nausea, light/sound sensitivity, or dizziness. It can be caused by tension, dehydration, stress, or medication side effects, and persistent headaches require medical evaluation.
Vivid dreams are intense, memorable dreams that can be pleasant or unpleasant. Frequent or disturbing vivid dreams may disrupt sleep and cause daytime fatigue or anxiety.
Stomach upset, often related to dosage amount.
Daytime drowsiness involves excessive sleepiness and fatigue during waking hours, impairing concentration and alertness. It can be caused by medication, sleep disruptions, or underlying conditions and poses safety risks.
Irritability is an increased feeling of frustration and annoyance, leading to heightened reactivity to stimuli. It can manifest as restlessness and difficulty concentrating.
Scientific Evidence
Numerous studies published in journals such as the Journal of Pineal Research and Sleep have demonstrated the efficacy of melatonin for sleep disorders and circadian rhythm regulation. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews provide comprehensive overviews of the available evidence.
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