Melatonin for Sleep Wake Disorders

This trial aims to determine if melatonin can enhance sleep quality and quantity for medical residents working night shifts. Melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep patterns, is available over the counter in the U.S. The trial compares melatonin to a placebo (a sugar pill with no active ingredients) to assess its effectiveness. Residents from anesthesiology, general surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, general medicine, or pediatrics at the University of Virginia who do not currently use sleep aids or have certain health conditions might be suitable candidates. As an Early Phase 1 trial, this research focuses on understanding melatonin's effects in people, offering participants a chance to contribute to groundbreaking insights on sleep improvement.

If you are currently using sleep aids, you will need to stop taking them to participate in this trial. The protocol does not specify about other medications, so it's best to discuss with the trial coordinators.

Research shows that melatonin is generally safe as a sleep aid. This hormone helps regulate sleep cycles and is available over the counter in the U.S. Studies have found that melatonin can help people adjust their sleep patterns when working night shifts.

Melatonin is usually well-tolerated, with only minor side effects reported. Common side effects include daytime sleepiness, headaches, and dizziness, occurring in less than 2% of users. Serious side effects are rare.

Melatonin is unique because it is a naturally occurring hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, unlike many standard treatments for sleep-wake disorders, which often involve prescription medications like benzodiazepines or non-benzodiazepine hypnotics. Researchers are excited about melatonin because it has the potential to improve sleep patterns with fewer side effects, as it mimics the body's own sleep-regulating mechanisms. Additionally, melatonin is available in over-the-counter forms, which could make it more accessible and convenient for patients if proven effective.

This trial will compare the effects of melatonin with a placebo for sleep-wake disorders. Research has shown that melatonin can improve sleep for night shift workers, such as anesthesiology residents. As a hormone that regulates sleep and wake cycles, melatonin makes it easier to fall and stay asleep. Studies have found that melatonin can extend sleep duration and reset the body's internal clock. Although specific studies on anesthesiology residents are limited, melatonin has proven effective for similar sleep issues in other groups, suggesting it might help residents sleep better during night shifts.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰