Fibromyalgia pain reduced with melatonin supplements in studies

By Lana Bandoim G+

Several studies have shown that melatonin supplements can reduce pain in patients who have fibromyalgia. Melatonin is usually used to improve sleep problems such as insomnia. Researchers suggest that fibromyalgia patients discuss the use of melatonin supplements with their doctor and consider them as part of their treatment plan.
A study from Brazil, published in the journal BMC Pharmacology and Toxicology, reveals that melatonin reduced pain in fibromyalgia patients. The study included 63 women who were divided into three groups and took medications at night for six weeks. One group received 10 mg of melatonin, the second group received 25 mg of amitriptyline, and the third group received a combination of 25 mg of amitriptyline and 10 mg of melatonin. Amitriptyline is an antidepressant that is often prescribed for fibromyalgia patients. The results of the study showed that the patients who took melatonin reported lower pain levels.
It is important to note that the patients in the study used melatonin every day and did not skip dosages. In addition, they took 10 mg of melatonin, and some supplements on the market today have smaller amounts. Melatonin is a hormone that is naturally made by the human body and helps regulate sleep. Sleep problems are a common complaint among fibromyalgia patients, so it is not surprising that some have found relief with a supplement. In addition, researchers believe that melatonin helps because it can act as a free radical scavenger.
Before you take any type of supplements, you may want to consult with your doctors. Melatonin has a small number of side effects including headaches, dizziness, vivid dreams, daytime sleepiness and confusion. Melatonin can interact with some medications such as immunosuppressants, diabetes medications, birth control pills and anticoagulants.

Source: EmaxHealth