Breast cancer is a form of cancer affecting the breast tissue, and the risk of developing this disease increases with age, according to Merck Manual. Melatonin is a hormone produced in your brain in the pineal gland and is also available as an over-the-counter supplement in North America. Among various health benefits, melatonin has been also researched for preventing and treating breast cancer. Although some studies showed positive findings, you should not use this supplement without seeking advice from your health care provider.
Research
Melatonin inhibits the development of breast cancer, according to a study conducted by a medical team from Tulane University School of Medicine. In the study, published in the December 2010 issue of "Breast Cancer Research," the authors explain that melatonin acts by inhibiting some hormone-dependent chemical compounds that are involved in the development of this form of cancer.
Another study featured in January 2011 issue of "Journal of Pineal Research," found that melatonin combined with vitamin D works in tandem to inhibit the formation of the breast cancer, and they also have the ability to kill cancerous cells of the breast.
Melatonin & Chemo Drugs
According to Drugs.com, melatonin may protect against side effects of chemo drugs, suggesting that this supplement's anticancer quality may be due to inhibiting a substance called P-glycoprotein from cancerous cells. Although melatonin shows promising results, further research is needed to confirm the benefits of melatonin in cancer and chemo treatments, says Drugs.com.
Safety
Melatonin is generally considered a safe and well-tolerated supplement when taken as recommended by your doctor. In rare cases, side effects like headaches, nausea and dizziness may occur. Melatonin should be taken at bedtime since using this supplement during the day creates somnolence, and may impair the ability to drive. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use this supplement as its safety has not been sufficiently evaluated in these situations.
Women who wish to become pregnant should not use this supplement either. According to Drugs.com, melatonin has potential anti-contraceptive effects because decreases the activity of the reproductive hormones.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health care provider to find out more about melatonin and optimal dosage of this supplement needed for your condition. Keep in mind that melatonin does not replace and should not be used to replace standard therapy for breast cancer. It is not approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat or prevent breast cancer.
References
- Drugs.com: Melatonin
- " Breast Cancer Research"; Inhibition of Breast Cancer Cell Invasion by Melatonin is Mediated Through Regulation of the p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Signaling Pathway; L. Mao et al; December, 2010
- "Journal of Pineal Research"; Melatonin and Vitamin D(3) Synergistically Down-Regulate Akt and MDM2 Leading to TGFβ-1-Dependent Growth Inhibition of Breast Cancer Cells; S.Proietti et al; March, 2011
- Merck Manual: Breast Cancer
