Melatonin and Pregnancy
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Melatonin is a hormone that occurs naturally in the body, and is secreted by the pineal gland. The hormone regulates the body's sleep cycle, or circadian rhythm.[1] Natural levels of melatonin become lower as the body ages.
Melatonin is also sold as a dietary supplement, and can help regulate sleep disturbances caused by travel over multiple time zones, work shift changes, and stress.[2]
Medical professionals recommend using caution when taking supplements such as melatonin, since the levels of active ingredients can vary with these over-the-counter or OTC products. Side effects of melatonin include a decrease in sperm count and the ability of sperm to properly "swim" to the egg. Melatonin can also cause breast swelling in men.
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| Brand names | Melatonin Time Release, Melatonin Sustain, Health Aid Melatonin, Bio-Melatonin, SGard, etc. |
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| Used for | Regulating sleep cycles |
| Pregnancy risk factor | Not categorized but considered possibly unsafe[1] |
| Warnings | Patients should not take melatonin during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if they are younger than 18.[2] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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Melatonin and Pregnancy
The National Institutes of Health have determined that melatonin is "likely safe" for use in many circumstances but warn that the effects of the supplement on pregnancy is possibly unsafe and recommend not taking it. The agency's recommendations also suggest that melatonin might interfere with ovulation, making it more difficult to become pregnant.[1] The FDA has not categorized melatonin as a pregnancy risk, but experts advise against taking the supplement during pregnancy.[3]
Some suggest that high levels of melatonin in the body could result in fetal developmental disorders. Research has also shown that melatonin can lower sperm levels, so men whose partners are hoping to become pregnant may not be good candidates for the supplement.[4]
Melatonin and Breastfeeding
The NIH reports that the effect of melatonin on breastfeeding is unknown, and recommends that nursing mothers not use it. In animal laboratory studies, melatonin was detected in breast milk, resulting in advice not to take the supplement while breastfeeding.[4] Melatonin may adversely affect children by reacting with natural hormones, possibly impeding development.[1]
About Drug Side Effects
Sleep Aids Safe for Pregnancy
Pregnant women are advised to consult a doctor before taking any sleep aid or other supplement or drug. Unisom may be one over-the-counter option for expecting mothers in need of rest. Benadryl is another option, but is safest when used after the first trimester. Some prescription sleeping pills may also be recommended by physicians.[5]
Also See: Melatonin Side Effects, Melatonin Coupons, Vitamin Coupons, Ambien and Pregnancy, Tylenol and Pregnancy, Marijuana and Pregnancy
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References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/940.html
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 http://www.fda.gov/ohrms/dockets/dockets/97s0162/let1936.pdf
- ↑ http://www.womensmentalhealth.org/posts/melatonin-in-pregnancy-is-it-safe/
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/melatonin/NS_patient-melatonin/DSECTION=safety
- ↑ http://answers.webmd.com/answers/1189627/
