Circadin (Melatonin)

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland. It regulates sleep and wakefulness. The body normally produces more melatonin at night, the level going up as the sun sets and goes down when the sun is up. Melatonin supplement, in synthetic form, is available as pills, chewable, or liquid.

People use melatonin when they have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. It is also taken for other sleep problems. Melatonin helps people who suffer from delayed sleep phase disorder. It also benefits people whose jobs disrupt their normal sleep schedules, a condition known as sleep work disorder.

The main function of melatonin is the regulation of night and day cycles. The onset of darkness makes the body produce more melatonin, a signal for the body to get ready to sleep. Light decreases the production of melatonin, a signal for the body to get ready to wake up. Low levels of melatonin in individuals result in difficulty to fall asleep. Giving them melatonin supplement helps in making them fall asleep.

Click here to view patient information leaflet