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A new survey launched by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine questions the effects of melatonin, a hormone offered over the counter to treat sleep disorders.
When sleep becomes difficult, some turn to melatonin, a hormone naturally produced by the body, which is also purchased in the form of sleeping pills. However, according to some researchers, taking this hormone would not be without consequences for health. Liath Guetta, pulmonologist and sleep doctor, sheds light on this subject.
Melatonin would affect body temperature, blood sugar and blood vessels
It’s a proven fact: in the evening, melatonin makes it easier to fall asleep. The release of this small molecule produced by the pineal gland, at the back of our brain, increases at the end of the day when the light decreases. But if its therapeutic use against sleep disorders has become commonplace, it is actually not recommended by the health authorities.
Indeed, an investigation (ongoing) conducted by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine is concerned about the potentially harmful effects of melatonin. According to scientists, it would affect different functions of the body.
“It has an impact on body temperature, blood sugar and even the tone of blood vessels“says Muhammad Adeel Rishi, MD, vice chair of the public safety committee of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
Although no harmful effects have yet been proven, melatonin – currently available over the counter in the United States – has not been approved as a drug by the FDA. In France, regulations authorize the marketing of food supplements providing less than 2 mg of melatonin per day.
Another important point: the doses of melatonin displayed on the labels are sometimes misleading (+ 10% versus the label). According to the study, out of 30 bottles analyzed (commercially available), around a quarter of the products present another substance, not mentioned on the label: serotonin, the pleasure hormone. However, this could interact with other treatments, in particular those used to treat mood disorders.
Pending the final results of the investigation, scientists call on consumers to be vigilant. Melatonin sold over the counter should be taken with caution.
Consult a doctor online for your sleep disorders
Melatonin to fall asleep better: “yes, in some people”
For Liath Guetta, pulmonologist and sleep doctor, taking melatonin to treat certain sleep disorders is a good idea, provided it is used under medical supervision.
“For some people this treatment works and for others it doesn’t. Hence the importance of consulting a doctor beforehand. In addition, melatonin is effective in treating disturbances of the biological clock, such as jet-lag, but not insomnia problems.assures the expert.
Another advantage of the drug: “it does not create dependency problems” and children”support it very well”underlines the expert.
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