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Melatonin Quick Facts

Posted on July 23, 2012 by Hanners Ellicott-Chatham in Information

Melatonin is a neurotransmitter which regulates one’s sleep cycle.

Other Brand Names: Circadin

Generic Name: Melatonin

Primary Uses:

Delayed Sleep-Phase Syndrome

Seasonal Affective Disorder
Narcolepsy
Insomnia
Other sleep disorders

Other Uses:

Bipolar Disorder
Autism
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Depression
Alzheimer’s Disease
Anxiety
Tinnitus

Availability: In pills and liquid suspension, ranging from 1mg to 20mg, most commonly at 3mg. In North
America it is available over-the-counter as a dietary supplement. Melatonin is also available by prescription in
extended release form by the name Circadin.

Contraindications:

Youth under 13
Low blood pressure

Side Effects:

Less serious side effects may include:

Drowsiness
Headaches
Nausea
Vivid dreams and nightmares
Hypothermia
Irritability

Metabolized: Liver
Excreted: Kidneys
Half-life: 35 to 50 minutes

Withdrawal Effects:

Insomnia

Sources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melatonin

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Tags: Alzheimer's, anxiety, autism, bipolar disorder, Circadin, Delayed Sleep-Phase Syndrome, depression,
dietary supplements, dreams, drowsiness, headaches, insomnia, irritability, melatonin, narcolepsy, nausea,
neurotransmitters, nightmares, quick facts, Seasonal Affective Disorder, sleep, sleep cycle, withdrawal

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