There is no greater pain than tossing and turning for hours at a time when you can't fall asleep. For some, this can last for days or weeks. At times like these, you may have heard the name 'Melatonin' from a friend or on the internet. You may have heard that it is used for insomnia or jet lag. So let's talk about it in more depth today. Let's find out exactly what it is, is it really good to use it, and what are the things to be careful about.
Simply put, what is melatonin?
Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by a small gland in our brain. Simply put, it controls our body's "sleep clock." When it gets dark, that is, at night, our body starts producing melatonin. This makes us feel sleepy. When light comes in the morning, melatonin levels decrease and wake us up. This is our sleep-wake cycle.
The melatonin you buy at the pharmacy is a synthetic version of this natural hormone. The most important thing is that this is not a drug that cures, prevents, or diagnoses any disease. It is just a supplement, like a vitamin pill.
Things you should tell your doctor before using melatonin
If you are considering using melatonin, it is important to talk to your family doctor before making a decision on your own. Especially if you have any of the following medical conditions or problems, be sure to tell your doctor.
| Conditions to report to the doctor | |
|---|---|
| Cancer | Depression or other mental illnesses |
| Diabetes | Hormone problems |
| Immune system problems | Liver disease |
| Lung diseases such as asthma | If you have had an organ transplant |
| Seizure disorder | If you are severely addicted to alcohol |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | If you are a breastfeeding mother |
| If you have an allergic reaction to melatonin or other medications, foods, or dyes. | |
How exactly do you use this?
Take this as directed by your doctor or as directed on the label.
- These usually come in chewable tablets. Do not swallow the tablet whole. Chew it well and crush it.
- For best results, take it on an empty stomach, an hour or two before bedtime .
- After taking this, do not engage in any other activities except going to bed and getting ready for sleep.
- Never take more than the prescribed dose.
- If you forget to take a dose one day, skip that dose. Take your regular dose the next day at the regular time. Never take two doses at once.
- If giving to young children, be sure to consult a pediatrician as special care is required .
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much melatonin, don't panic. The immediate action is to call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or, go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Other drugs and things that may interact with melatonin
Melatonin can interact with other medications, so tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including vitamins and herbal remedies.
| Medications that should never be taken with melatonin | |
|---|---|
| Fluvoxamine | Ramelteon |
| Tasimelteon | |
| Things to be very careful about when taking with melatonin | |
| Alcohol | Beverages containing caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks) |
| Smoking tobacco | Blood thinners, such as Warfarin |
| Hormonal medications such as birth control pills and patches | Some medications for depression and anxiety |
| High blood pressure medications such as Nifedipine | Some antibiotics, such as Ciprofloxacin |
The most important things to be careful about when using
- Drowsiness and dizziness: You may feel drowsy or dizzy after taking this. Therefore, do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything that requires concentration while taking melatonin.
- Sleep-walking: This is the most dangerous. Some people, after taking melatonin, may wake up and do various things without realizing it. For example, they may wake up and cook, make phone calls, or drive a car while asleep ("sleep-driving"). They may not remember any of this the next morning. This can be a serious accident. If you find that this has happened to you, tell your doctor immediately. In particular, do not take melatonin on the day you have drunk alcohol or taken other sleeping pills. This increases the risk.
- "Natural" does not mean "safe":
Remember, melatonin is a supplement, not a drug that is strictly regulated by the government. This means that the purity and quality of the pills from one brand to another can vary. Don't assume that just because it says "natural" on the label, it's safe for everyone.
What are the possible side effects?
Like anything, melatonin can cause side effects in some people.
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Mental and behavioral changes | Severe restlessness, agitation, confusion, hallucinations, suicidal thoughts, increased depression. |
| Minor side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Feeling sleepy the next day | Headache |
| Nausea | Dizziness |
| Bedwetting in children | |
Take-Home Message
- Melatonin is a sleep aid supplement, not a cure-all.
- Be sure to consult your doctor before using this, especially if you have other medical conditions.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.
- Avoid driving and performing tasks that require attention after taking melatonin.
- Never take melatonin with alcohol. This increases the risk of dangerous side effects, such as sleepwalking.
- Store this at room temperature, out of the reach of small children and pets.
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