Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by such symptoms as bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain and weight loss. It occurs when the lining of the colon becomes inflamed and ulcerated and might be caused by both genetic and environmental factors. Although there is no cure, anti-inflammatory medicines can help keep symptoms at bay for months or even years. Melatonin might also help fight symptoms, although scientific evidence to prove this is limited. Get medical advice before taking melatonin supplements.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland in the brain and controls the circadian rhythm and the timing of the menstrual cycle. A synthetic form is available from pharmacies and is used to help fight jet lag and insomnia. It might also play a role in the treatment of other conditions, such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and breast cancer. The University of Maryland Medial Center notes that melatonin might also improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, such as bloating and abdominal pain.
Ulcerative Colitis Research
The results of a clinical study in 40 patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, published in the Russian medical journal "Terapevticheskii Arkhiv" in 2010, show that using melatonin in combination with traditional inflammatory bowel disease medicines improves treatment outcomes and aids recovery of the colonic mucosa. The results of an animal study published in the August 2005 issue of "Mediators of Inflammation" shows that melatonin also helps reduce colonic inflammation.
Administration
Synthetic melatonin is available over-the-counter in capsules, tablets and lozenges. Since melatonin is not a standard treatment for ulcerative colitis, guidance regarding a suitable dosage is lacking. However, your doctor may be able to advise on an appropriate dose. Read the label carefully before using.
Safety Considerations
Melatonin supplements may cause side effects, including daytime drowsiness, vivid dreams, headache, irritability, stomach cramps and dizziness. It might also interact with other medicines, including antidepressants and blood pressure medicines, making them less effective. Don't take melatonin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding and get medical advice before using it if you have depression, because it may make you feel worse.
References
- NHS Choices; Ulcerative Colitis; April 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Melatonin; December 2009
- "Terapevticheskii Arkhiv"; Use of Melatonin in Combined Treatment for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases; O. Rakhimova; 2010
- "Mediators of Inflammation"; Melatonin Reduces Inflammatory Injury Through Inhibiting NF-kappaB Activation in Rats With Colitis; J.H. Li, et al.; August 2005
