Melatonin
hormone primarily released by the pineal gland From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Melatonin is a hormone found in animals, plants, and microbes.[1][2][3] In animals, levels of melatonin have a daily cycle. It drives the circadian rhythms of several biological functions.[4]
Melatonin is produced in the pineal gland which is outside of the blood–brain barrier. It acts as a hormone, and is released into the blood.[5]
Melatonin acts on melatonin receptors.[6] It also acts directly because it is a powerful antioxidant,[7] which protects DNA.[8]
Melatonin supplements for humans can be given. Melatonin is categorized by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a dietary supplement, not a drug.[9] A prescription-only, timed release melatonin product for people aged 55 and over was approved for use by the European Medicines Agency in 2007, despite having shown only small effects,[10] and in Australia in 2009.[11]
It is often given to young people with sleep problems.[12]
References
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