Circadin

About Melatonin (Circadin)

Melatonin (Circadin) is a medication which can be used for the prevention and treatment of jet lag, although it’s UK licensed use is for insomnia. Jet lag occurs when the body finds it difficult to adjust to a new time zone (usually when travelling east) and as a result sleep pattern is disrupted. This leads to a feeling of tiredness, drowsiness and restlessness with disturbances to eating also experienced. Melatonin is the hormone found naturally in the body which determines whether you feel tired or awake. The levels of melatonin should increase at night to allow you to sleep, although when travelling across time zones it can be difficult for the body to adjust and melatonin levels may remain low during the night in the new destination. Melatonin (Circadin) works by gradually releasing melatonin into the body through the night to encourage sleep and help restore the body clock function.

Why is Melatonin (Circadin) currently only licensed for treatment of insomnia?

Melatonin (Circadin) was specifically produced to treat insomnia and therefore the effect on jet lag has not been studied in a clinical trial. As it contains melatonin which aids sleep at night and improves daytime function, it is also used to restore sleep pattern in those suffering from jet lag.

Will Melatonin (Circadin) make me feel tired during the day?

If you take Melatonin (Circadin) when recommended (only in the evening before going to bed), melatonin will gradually be released over 8-10 hours to decrease the time it takes to fall asleep and improve sleep quality throughout the night. This should actually improve alertness in daytime as it allows your body to have a better sleep at the correct time. If taken during the day, Circadin is likely to cause tiredness and drowsiness.

How long should I use Melatonin (Circadin) for?

Treatment with Melatonin (Circadin) should be stopped once your body has adjusted to the new time zone. Cautions

• Melatonin (Circadin) should not be taken if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Do not take Melatonin (Circadin) if you have liver or kidney problems, an intolerance to some sugars or suffer from an autoimmune disease.
• The safety and effectiveness of Melatonin (Circadin) has not been tested on children aged 0 to 18 years, therefore this medication should only be taken by patients over 18.
• Melatonin (Circadin) may cause drowsiness. You should avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience this.
• Do not consume alcohol before, during or after taking Melatonin(Circadin) as this can reduce the effectiveness of the medication.

Circadin contains the active ingredient melatonin, the hormone which is responsible for regulating the body clock and causing tiredness.

Always use Circadin (melatonin) as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. The usual dose for treating jet lag is one tablet at night, 1-2 hours before bedtime, for up to 5 days. As soon as the symptoms of jet lag disappear, you should stop taking Circadin / melatonin.

Melatonin (Circadin) Side Effects

Uncommon side effects of Melatonin include abdominal pain, indigestion, dry mouth, mouth ulcers, nausea, weight gain, increased blood pressure, chest pain, general feeling of illness, dizziness, restlessness, nervousness, irritability, anxiety, headache, abnormal dreams, increased protein or sugar in urine, itching, rash and dry skin. Rare Melatonin side effects include thirst, flatulence, bad breath, salivation, vomiting, inflammation of stomach lining, blood disorders, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, fainting, hot flushes, aggression, impaired memory, restless legs syndrome, abnormal sensation (tingling, prickling etc.), mood changes, persistent and painful erection of penis, increased libido, inflammation of prostate gland, frequent urination, blood in urine, electrolyte disturbances, muscle spasm, arthritis, eye watering, visual disturbances and nail disorders.

If you have a question about this service, please email info@drfelix.co.uk with the question, and one of our doctors will get back to you within 24 hours.