The pineal gland at the base of the brain produces melatonin, a hormone that assists in regulating sleep habits. Melatonin is also available over-the-counter in supplement form to assist in easing the symptoms of mild or occasional insomnia. During the years immediately preceding a woman's final menstrual cycle, she may suffer from insomnia related to hormonal fluctuations. Melatonin supplements may help women who suffer from menopause-related insomnia, but a medical doctor should perform an exam and supervise any treatment with this supplement.
Melatonin's Potential Benefits
According to the NYU Langone Medical Center, there is no indication that taking melatonin supplements will be beneficial in treating symptoms of menopause, other than mild insomnia, including hot flashes, moodiness and night sweats.
Melatonin, when combined with components found in soy, however, may have some effect on psychological symptoms experienced during menopause, according to Medline Plus, a division of the National Institutes of Health. Clinical research is necessary to confirm these potential benefits.
Method/Dosage
Take melatonin before going to bed, since drowsiness can occur. For mild menopause-related insomnia, take up to 3 mg, one hour before going to sleep. Try a reduced dose first, because as little as 0.1 mg may be beneficial for some women.
Side Effects
Use of melatonin supplements can result in nightmares or vivid dreams. Some women may experience abdominal cramping, irritability, headache and dizziness. Melatonin may make symptoms of depression worse.
The supplement may interfere with current medications, including drugs used in the treatment of high blood pressure, benzodiazepines, beta-blocker antidepressants and antipsychotics. It may also interact with steroids, blood-thinning drugs, some cancer medications and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Considerations
Ask your doctor if taking melatonin supplements is right for you. If there is a chance that you may be pregnant, do not take melatonin. Your doctor can monitor the level of melatonin in your blood to determine if it is low. The FDA does not oversee the production of supplements, so there is no guarantee of quality and safety.
References
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- NYU Langone Medical Center,
- MedlinePlus: Melatonin, December 3, 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Melatonin
