DOZEPAT (FORMALLY SLEEPWELL TABLETS) TABLET (Each tablet contains Melalonin 5mg)
Melalonin
What it does
Melatonin is a natural hormone that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles.
Commonly used for: insomnia (difficulty sleeping), jet lag (disruption of sleep due to travel), shift work disorder (sleep problems related to working different hours)
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
Ask about this medicine
Answers come only from this medicine's registration record, BNF monograph and interaction data - not medical advice.
Medicine sourcing is available in Kenya only. We don't sell or dispense medicines - licensed pharmacies do.
Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:37:20 · updated 2026-10-23 04:00:03
About this medicine
Melatonin is a natural hormone that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles.
What it treats
- insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
- jet lag (disruption of sleep due to travel)
- shift work disorder (sleep problems related to working different hours)
How it works
Melatonin helps your body know when it's time to sleep by adjusting the internal body clock.
Who it's for
Melatonin is suitable for adults and children with sleep issues.
Cautions
- • Avoid use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- • Consult a doctor if you are taking other medications or have health conditions.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: melalonin
Melatonin is a hormone primarily produced by the pineal gland in the brain, which plays a crucial role in regulating circadian rhythms and sleep-wake cycles. It is commonly used as a dietary supplement to aid in sleep disorders, such as insomnia and jet lag. Melatonin supplements are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid.
Indications
- Insomnia
- Jet lag
- Circadian rhythm sleep disorders
- Sleep disturbances in shift work
- Sleep disorders in children with developmental disorders
Dosage
Children: Refer to specific guidelines as doses may vary based on the condition being treated and the formulation used.
Adults: Refer to specific guidelines as doses may vary based on the condition being treated and the formulation used.
Mechanism of action
Melatonin acts on melatonin receptors, particularly MT1 and MT2, which are G-protein coupled receptors located in various tissues, including the brain. Activation of these receptors leads to the modulation of several physiological processes, including the promotion of sleep onset, regulation of circadian rhythms, and antioxidant effects. Melatonin also influences the release of other hormones, such as cortisol, which is involved in the sleep-wake cycle.
Pharmacodynamics
Melatonin exhibits a biphasic effect on sleep, promoting sleep initiation at low doses and potentially disrupting sleep at higher doses. Its sedative properties are characterized by a decrease in the time taken to fall asleep and an improvement in overall sleep quality. Melatonin also influences body temperature regulation and may have a role in immune function due to its antioxidant properties.
Pharmacokinetics
Melatonin is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations typically reached within 30 to 120 minutes. It has a short half-life, generally ranging from 20 to 50 minutes, which necessitates multiple dosing for sustained effects. Melatonin is metabolized primarily in the liver via cytochrome P450 enzymes, particularly CYP1A2, and cleared from the body mainly through urine. Its bioavailability can be affected by factors such as age, liver function, and concurrent medications.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to melatonin or any of its components
- Severe liver impairment
- Autoimmune diseases
Adverse effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Mood changes
- Vivid dreams or nightmares
Interactions
- CNS depressants (may enhance sedative effects)
- Anticoagulants (may affect bleeding risk)
- Immunosuppressants (may interfere with immune response)
- Hormonal medications (may influence hormonal balance)
Precautions
- Use with caution in individuals with depression or mood disorders
- May cause drowsiness; avoid activities requiring alertness after use
- Not recommended for long-term use without medical supervision
- Consult healthcare provider before use in patients with chronic conditions
Pregnancy
Limited data available, use only if clearly needed and prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Breast-feeding
Not recommended, as effects on breastfed infants are not well studied.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Capsules
- Liquid formulations
- Sublingual tablets
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.