Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone in the body that is synthesized through a chemical pathway from the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin, in turn is synthesized from tryptophan, an essential dietary amino acid. Melatonin is thought to regulate circadian rhythms, an internal clock that regulates sleep. Deregulated circadian rhythms are associated with many disorders, which include insomnia and epilepsy. Melatonin, as an herbal supplement, is often taken to relieve the symptoms of insomnia.
Pregnancy Contraindications
According to MedlinePlus, melatonin should not be taken during pregnancy as it may potentially be unsafe. Presently, there is little sufficient data to support the safe usage of melatonin during pregnancy or during breast feeding. As a hormone, it is difficult to judge what effect melatonin may have on the unborn developing fetus or the growth of the child later in life. It is also possible that melatonin may interfere with ovulation.
Sedatives
Sedatives are often used to treat everything from anxiety to insomnia. Through depressed activity of the central nervous system, sedatives allow patients to relax and drift off to sleep. By themselves, sedative overdose can easily cause a fatal suppression of respiration and heart rate. Melatonin can cause sleepiness and grogginess, making it quite possible that this supplement may dangerously exacerbate the effects of sedatives, which include phenobarbital and Ambien. Melatonin is not advised along with these medications.
Immunosuppressants
Immunosuppressants are specialized medications that are largely used to decrease the patients' immune system during organ transplantation. This is performed to lessen the chance of organ rejection by the patients' bodies. Melatonin can also suppress the immune system and could have unforeseen consequences when taken in conjunction with immunosuppressant medication. Melatonin could potentially worsen the effects of the medication, making the patient susceptible to unwanted infections and disease.
Diabetes
Majority of medication used for diabetes, including glimepiride, pioglitazone, rosiglitazone, and insulin, are used to lower blood sugar levels, however, melatonin, can increase blood sugar levels. This indicates that melatonin supplements may lower the effectiveness of diabetes medication. It is imperative that any patient with diabetes that also desires to take melatonin should first consult their doctor. Blood sugar levels will need to be monitored frequently and medication may need to be adjusted accordingly.
References
- MedlinePlus: Melatonin
- "Neuropsychopharmacology: The Fifth Generation of Progress";Basic Mechanisms of Sedative/Hynotics; Wallace B. Mendelson; 2002
- "Immunology"; Melatonin -- a pleiotropic molecule involved in pathophysiological processes following organ transplantation; James E Fildes, Nizar Yonan, and Brian G Keevil; August 2009
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