Melatonin is a common sleep-promoting supplement that may benefit those who suffer from dementia. Common side effects of the disease, which primarily affects the elderly, include sleep disorders. While there are few scientific studies involving its effects on dementia, melatonin does show promise as a means to improve sleep patterns and possibly some disease symptoms as well. Talk to your doctor before using melatonin to treat any medical condition.
What Is Melatonin?
Melatonin is a popular sleep supplement that can be purchased over the counter. Melatonin supplements contain a synthetic form of the hormone melatonin, which occurs naturally in our brains and is thought to help regulate our sleep cycles. According to MayoClinic.com, there is good evidence that melatonin supplements can help people fall asleep faster and stay asleep for longer, though scientific research on the supplement is limited. In addition to its role in sleep cycles, melatonin also contains antioxidants, which are often touted as preventives for many chronic conditions.
Dementia and Melatonin
Dementia is a broad diagnosis used to describe a number of related medical conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia or post-stroke dementia and lewy body disease. While not all types of dementia are exactly the same, the diagnosis alludes to a decline in the overall cognitive processes, as well as other complications like emotional and sleep disturbances. Based on its properties, melatonin could potentially be a powerful supplement for those with dementia. The role of melatonin in improving cognition as well as sleep disturbances is currently undergoing investigation. While MayoClinic.com reports that there is limited evidence one way or the other regarding its effects on cognition, melatonin may improve sleep patterns in the elderly, including those with dementia.
Sleep Disturbances
A 2008 study reviewed by researchers at the The Doctors of USC revealed that melatonin supplements did improve sleep patterns in those with dementia. However, it had some unexpected side effects as well: Some participants experienced more depressive symptoms and became more withdrawn -- two other common side effects of dementia. This side effect was not common, though it is potentially troubling. MayoClinic.com gives melatonin a "C" grade when it comes to treating sleep disorders in the Alzheimer's population: The current evidence is limited, and also unclear.
Safety
Melatonin is not for everyone. Even natural supplements can interact with certain medications or cause potentially dangerous side effects. Some of melatonin's warnings include increased confusion, difficulty walking, irritability and an increased risk for seizures. In addition, melatonin supplements can cause depression or hallucinations, both of which are common side effects of some types of dementia. MayoClinic.com reports that no one with an underlying psychiatric disorder should take melatonin without the close supervision of a physician. While it would seem melatonin could be the answer to insomnia related to dementia, it may not be safe for this population.
