Melatonin Research Paper

Mona Wang
Lianrejo Sepnio
Melatonin: Fad or Validity?

Melatonin is a hormone produced in the brain that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Although it’s naturally produced in our bodies, pills can be purchased to aid with sleep. When the body senses darkness, it signals the production of melatonin, and decreases when more light is sensed. Melatonin is claimed to improve insomnia, sleep disorders, blindness, jet lag, high blood pressure, low blood platelets, and many more. Despite these claims, plenty are not fully proven for success. Studies show that short term use of this supplement is safe, however a long duration or other drug interactions may result in side effects.

In 1958, dermatologist Dr. Aaron Lerner was researching skin pigmentation
They were given oral melatonin, compared with placebo or other medication, then kept track of their quality of sleep, daytime tiredness, psychological function, and circadian rhythms. The results showed that those who took higher doses of melatonin (5mg) fell asleep faster and slept better than those who took less (0.5mg). Additionally the case reports suggest that those with epilepsy and those taking anticoagulants may come to harm from this supplement. The author concluded that melatonin is very effective in preventing and reducing jet lag when taken
It is likely safe for an adult to take it orally or intravenously for a brief amount of time. When taken for an extended amount of time, it may cause short-term feelings of depression, daytime sleepiness, dizziness, stomach cramps and irritability. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA, therefor no regulated manufacturing standards are in place for melatonin. Since it is derived from an animal’s pineal gland, it may carry the risk of contamination or transmitting viral material. Seeing as melatonin causes you to be more lethargic, it is dangerous if used with sedatives such as Ativan, Klonopin, and various benzodiazepines. Others include barbiturates such as phenobarbital, narcotics such as codeine, some antidepressants, and alcohol. Likewise, caution should be used when operating machinery, and it is not advised to ingest before driving. Individuals taking drugs for diabetes or insulin could have negative side effects when using melatonin. In addition, it can react negatively with birth control pills, caffeine, Luvox, immunosuppressants, anticoagulant or anti platelet drugs, procardia, and verapamil. Therefor, caution must be taken before utilizing melatonin and it is recommended to contact your health care provider