A secondary sleep disorder is a sleep condition that occurs as a result of another underlying medical condition. All types of sleep disorders, including insomnia and sleep apnea, can be secondary. Supplementation with the hormone melatonin has been shown to be effective in improving secondary sleep disorders. You should always consult your doctor before beginning any type of alternative medicine.
Physiology
Your pineal gland, an endocrine gland in your brain, secretes the hormone melatonin in response to light. When your brain is exposed to light, the secretion of melatonin decreases. When you are exposed to darkness, the pineal gland excretes higher amounts of melatonin. According to MayoClinic.com, the levels of melatonin in the bloodstream are higher directly before bedtime, which indicates that the hormone is involved in maintaining the proper sleep cycle.
Supplementation
Synthetic versions of melatonin are available as supplements to help improve sleep disorders. Various clinical studies have shown that when taken for a period of several days to several weeks, melatonin can reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep, increase the number of hours you are able to stay asleep and increase your levels of alertness during the day, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Dosage
Melatonin is available in quick-release or extended-release forms. The quick-release version of melatonin has been shown to be more effective in treating sleep disorders than the extended-release.
A specific dosage for melatonin has not been established because different people have varying responses to the supplement. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that it is best to start with small doses, such as 0.3 mg, that mimic the body's natural production of melatonin. Those with insomnia may benefit from 1 to 3 mg one hour before bedtime, but dosage should be increased gradually. There is not enough evidence to support the use of melatonin in those under the age of 18, so children should not take melatonin.
Side Effects
Most people can tolerate melatonin without any side effects. When side effects do occur, they may include fatigue, dizziness, headache, irritability, confusion, sleepwalking and nightmares. Hallucinations and paranoia have also been reported, but usually with an overdose.
Always discuss the safety and possible risks of any alternative treatment or supplementation with your doctor.
Contraindications
Melatonin may interact with various medications. Supplementation with melatonin has been shown to reduce the effects of antidepressant medications. Melatonin may also make certain blood pressure medications, such as methoxamine and clonidine, less effective. You should inform your doctor if you are on any medications before beginning melatonin supplementation.
Melatonin is not regulated by the FDA, so effectiveness and various characteristics, such as safety and strength, may vary between supplements.
