Melatonin

Melatonin is available in several pharmaceutical forms to cover a wide range of preferences and therapeutic needs. The most common are capsules, tablets, sublingual tablets, oral drops, oral spray or jellies.

In general, the available concentrations vary between 1 mg and 10 mg. For example, Melatonina Jamieson comes in the form of 5 mg sublingual tablets, Bien Dormir con Melatonina is available in 5 mg capsules, and Bio Melatonina contains 3 mg melatonin tablets.

Manufacturers - Rotta Natura, Zenyth, Jamieson, Laboratorios Remedia, Esi, etc.

Melatonin is mainly indicated in the following situations:

• Sleep disorders (insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, frequent night-time awakenings)
• Jet lag, commonly experienced by people who travel long distances
• Circadian rhythm disorders in shift workers or people with delayed sleep phase syndrome
• Reduction of oxidative stress and support for cellular health through antioxidant properties
• Slows down the ageing process thanks to its ability to protect cell membranes

• Immune support, as melatonin has a beneficial effect on the immune system

The dosage of melatonin should be adjusted according to concentration, age, severity of sleep disorder and individual sensitivity.

In general, 1 capsule or tablet per day is taken in the evening, approximately 30 minutes before bedtime. Sublingual melatonin should be allowed to dissolve completely without being swallowed or chewed.

It is advisable to follow the recommendation of a specialist, especially in the case of long-term treatment.

Melatonin is contraindicated in the following situations:

• Children and adolescents, unless specifically recommended by a doctor
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as the safety of melatonin during breastfeeding or pregnancy has not been sufficiently documented
• People who are hypersensitive to melatonin or any of the product's excipients

In case of coagulation disorders, high blood pressure, depression or other severe chronic diseases, it is advisable to seek the advice of a specialist.

After taking melatonin in the evening, it is essential to avoid exposure to bright artificial light or screens, as these may inhibit the action of melatonin.

Driving or operating machinery should also be avoided for the first 4–5 hours after administration due to possible drowsiness.

Melatonin is generally well tolerated. However, some side effects may occur, especially at high doses or in cases of individual sensitivity:

• Headache
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Nausea, abdominal cramps
• Irritability
• Dizziness

These reactions are usually transient and disappear when the dose is reduced or discontinued.

Melatonin may interact with several medicines:

• Anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents – may increase the risk of bleeding
• Sedative or hypnotic drugs – additive effect
• Immunosuppressants – potential antagonism
• Anticonvulsants, oral contraceptives, beta-blockers – may alter melatonin levels

Also, taking melatonin with alcohol or caffeine can significantly reduce its effectiveness, interfering with sleep quality.

Although melatonin has a high safety profile, overdose (intentional or accidental) can lead to an increase in the adverse effects already mentioned.

In case of overdose, it is recommended to discontinue use and seek medical advice.

Melatonin should be stored in its original packaging, tightly closed, in a dry place, away from light and excessive heat, at temperatures below 25°C.

Keep out of the reach and sight of children. Best before the expiry date stated on the packaging.

• PubMed, Effect of melatonin supplementation on sleep quality: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
• WebMD, Melatonin
• Healthline, Melatonin
• NIH, Melatonin