Therapeutic role of melatonin in migraine prophylaxis: Is there a link between sleep and migraine?
Study Goal
The researchers aimed to explore the diverse functions of melatonin, particularly its role in circadian rhythms, migraine treatment, and sleep disorders.
Results Summary
Melatonin demonstrated efficacy in treating migraine and various sleep disorders, including insomnia and circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders. It was also noted to be nontoxic and relatively safe.
Population
Humans, particularly those with migraine and sleep disorders.
Effective Dosage
Not specified
Duration
Not specified
Interactions
None mentioned
| Intervention | Direction | Endpoint | Population | Dosage | Impact | Claim # |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
exogenous melatonin | decrease | migraine | - | - | has significant effects | #1 |
melatonin | decrease | sleep disorders | - | - | has demonstrated efficacy | #2 |
melatonin | decrease | both disorders | - | - | represents a promising treatment strategy | #3 |
Melatonin is a ubiquitously distributed molecule that possesses diverse functions. Melatonin plays a key role in the endogenous circadian rhythms of humans via light stimulation in the hypothalamus. In addition, melatonin has roles in the opioid system, the nitric oxide pathway, free radical scavenging, inflammation, and antinociception. Melatonin is nontoxic and relatively safe. Recently, exogenous melatonin has been shown to have significant effects in the treatment of migraine. Further, it has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of sleep disorders, including insomnia, circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders, parasomnias, and sleep breathing disorders. Sleep disorders are commonly reported by those who experience migraine, and migraine and sleep disorders have been reported to be closely associated in cross-sectional studies. Longitudinal studies have shown that some sleep disorders and migraine show bidirectional comorbidities. Therefore, the identification and treatment of sleep disorders is important when treating migraine. Melatonin represents a promising treatment strategy for both disorders, especially when these conditions are combined.