Guidelines for prescribing melatonin.
Although compelling logic suggests that melatonin may be effective for a variety of disorders, there are few empirical clinical studies. The optimal dose of melatonin is not clear; most studies have used doses that produce supraphysiological blood levels. The timing of melatonin administration is important. Melatonin has few immediate side-effects except drowsiness, but the effects of chronic administration are unclear. Melatonin may be effective in reducing jet lag. In elderly patients with poor sleep and documented low melatonin production, melatonin may be helpful. In several studies, melatonin has been shown to shorten sleep latency. Further studies are needed to clarify the efficacy and safety of melatonin.
Avery
D
D
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle 98104-2499, USA. averydh@u.washington.edu
Lenz
M
M
Landis
C
C
D000368:Aged; D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy; D002940:Circadian Rhythm / Q000187:drug effects*; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008550:Melatonin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000502:physiology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016574:Seasonal Affective Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy; D012890:Sleep / Q000187:drug effects; D007319:Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy; D012893:Sleep Wake Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy*; D014195:Travel; D014940:Work Schedule Tolerance
D008550:Melatonin