What Is Melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone manufactured by the pineal gland, a gland located in the middle of the brain. The hormone helps regulate the body's circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle). Melatonin levels increase after sunset, and they remain elevated overnight. They decrease sharply around sunrise, and this causes individuals to wake from sleep. Melatonin supplements are available in tablet, liquid, and gummy formulations, and they are used primarily as natural sleep aids. The recommended dosage of melatonin is based on the patient's age. Pediatric patients can safely take up to six milligrams of melatonin, and doctors suggest starting with a dose of 0.5 milligrams for this age group. The dose should be taken thirty to sixty minutes before bedtime. Adults should start with a dose of 0.2 milligrams, and they can work up to a maximum dose of five milligrams. Patients in this age group should take melatonin supplements sixty minutes before bed. For older adults over sixty years old, the recommended starting dose is one milligram, and the suggested maximum dose is six milligrams.

The major uses, benefits, side effects, and precautions associated with melatonin supplements are discussed below.

How It Works

Melatonin is a fat-soluble hormone synthesized from an amino acid called tryptophan. The hormone sends signals to the brain's receptor agonist, and it binds to receptors that reduce nerve activity. Research shows it can help reduce levels of dopamine, a hormone that helps patients stay awake. Studies indicate melatonin is also involved in regulating body temperature and blood pressure. While the exact manner in which melatonin works is currently unclear, researchers believe its involvement in the regulation of body temperature, blood pressure, and the reduction of nerve activity could be responsible for its ability to promote sleep and relaxation. Ongoing research is being conducted to discover more about how this occurs.

Learn about the uses for melatonin next.