MELATONIN
Overview:
Melatonin is a hormone that is naturally produced by the brain and it plays a role in the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle. It is widely taken as a sleep aid, to cure jet lag, or to reset the internal clock. It alerts the body of when to sleep and can aid humans to fall asleep quicker or stay on a regular sleep cycle.
Classification: Hormone (pineal hormone)
Uses:
Melatonin is mainly used to help regulate sleep. It can make it easier to fall asleep, stay asleep, or adjust to changes in your sleep schedule, like after traveling across time zones or working night shifts. It’s also sometimes used to help children or older adults who have trouble sleeping. Melatonin helps your body reestablish a healthy sleep rhythm, so you feel restored and ready for the day.
How it works:
Melatonin is a hormone that is produced by the pineal gland and is used to control your circadian rhythm, which is the 24-hour clock that you have inside your body. It attaches to the MT1 and MT2 receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the brain, and indicates to your body that it is nighttime. This facilitates the onset of sleep and also allows the synchronization of your sleep wake cycle which is easier to fall asleep, maintain sleep or adapt to the changes in your everyday schedule.
Dosage: As prescribed by your doctor.
Side Effects:
- Feeling sleepy or drowsy during the day
- Headache
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Mild nausea or upset stomach
Precautions:
It is a good idea to discuss your health with your doctor before you take melatonin, particularly when you are pregnant or breastfeeding or have health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. It may put you to sleep and therefore do not drive or operate machines immediately after taking it. Some drugs such as blood thinners or diabetes medications can also react with melatonin. The most safe method is to take the lowest possible dose that works, and no longer than is necessary. In children or elderly people, it should be used only under the supervision of a physician.
Disclaimer:This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage.






