Restrictions concerning other medicaments

Yes, in some circumstances. According to Pierpaoli and Regelson, there are certain medicaments which may have a negative effect on the normal melatonin cycle. If possible, such products should be replaced by others with equivalent properties. Mainly this applies to non-steroid, anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDS), such as aspirin or ibuprofen. Very often they are prescribed for chronic ailments such as arthritis or other types of muscle pains. Since they interrupt the production cycle of melatonin, many patients complain about sleep irregularities. In this case you should consult your doctor and ask him to prescribe you a different product.

So-called beta-blockers, which are often used by patients suffering from high blood pressure (hypertension), may also adversely affect natural melatonin production, especially when taken at night. Since the application of melatonin may contribute to a normalisation of blood pressure, the use of beta-blockers at the same time would be counter-productive. However, never stop taking a medicine without having consulted your doctor first. There are excellent medicines available on the market for blood pressure control, which could be taken instead of beta-blockers. Your doctor will be glad to advise you.

Also, patients taking so-called serotonin-inhibitor drugs, antidepressants or corticosteroids should consult with their doctor before deciding to start melatonin therapy.

Concerning dietary supplements, such as vitamins, herbal and mineral products, or substances like coenzyme Q 10, etc., there are no restrictions whatsoever. Since melatonin supports the digestive system in respect of the resorption of all vital components from your daily food intake, it may even happen that after a period of regular melatonin application, you may no longer need any other supplements.