Uveitis is an uncommon eye condition characterized by inflammation of the middle layer of the eye. Uveitis may result from injury or infection and causes symptoms including pain in one or both eyes, blurred vision and redness of the eye. The U.K. National Health Services's website, NHS Choices, notes that while it is an uncommon type of eye condition, it is a leading cause of blindness. Uveitis is commonly treated with corticosteroid drugs that help to reduce inflammation in the eye. Melatonin might also play a role in the treatment of uveitis, although evidence show its effectiveness is limited. Get medical advice before taking melatonin supplements.
Properties and Uses
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It helps to control waking and sleeping, known as the circadian rhythm. A synthetic version is also available in supplement form over the counter and is primarily used to alleviate insomnia and jet lag, but it might also play a role in the treatment of breast cancer and ADHD. An article published in the August 2010 issue of the "Journal of Pineal Research" notes that harmful molecules known as free radicals might play a role in the development of uveitis and that melatonin might help to protect the body's cells from damage by these molecules and may therefore play a role in the treatment of this condition.
Research
The results of animal research published in "The American Journal of Pathology" in December 2008 show that melatonin may help to modify clinical, biochemical and structural aspects of uveitis, leading the authors to conclude that melatonin may represent a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of uveitis. Research findings published in the February 2006 issue of "Acta Ophthalmalogica Scandinavica" also show that uveitis may inhibit the production of the protein leptin, high levels of which are associated with the development of uveitis. However, the study was carried out in an animal model, not in people with uveitis.
Administration
Melatonin is available from pharmacies and health food stores in tablets, capsules and lozenges. Clinical guidance regarding a proper dose to help treat uveitis is lacking, but as a general guideline, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends beginning with a very low dose of melatonin, i.e., less than 0.3 mg per day, and using the lowest amount possible to achieve the desired effect. Ask your doctor for advice on a suitable dose.
Safety Considerations
The University of Maryland Medical Center warns that high doses of melatonin may cause anxiety, irritability and vivid dreams. It can also cause daytime drowsiness. Additional side effects include dizziness, headache and decreased libido. Don't use melatonin if you suffer from depression, as it might make you feel worse and can make antidepressant drugs less effective. Don't take melatonin supplements if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
References
- NHS Choices: Uveitis; July 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Melatonin; December 2009
- "Journal of Pineal Research"; Melatonin as a Therapeutic Tool in Ophthalmology: Implications for Glaucoma and Uveitis; P.H. Sande et al.; August 2010
- "The American Journal of Pathology"; Therapeutic Effect of Melatonin in Experimental Uveitis; P.H. Sande et al.; December 2008
- "Acta Ophthalmalogica Scandinavica"; Effects of Intraperitoneal Vitamin E, Melatonin and Aprotinin on Leptin Expression in the Guinea Pig Eye During Experimental Uveitis; A. Kükner et al.; February 2006
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