The Effects of Melatonin on Menstrual Characteristics, Prolactin, and Premenstrual Syndrome-Like Symptoms during a Simulated Eastward Deployment.
Abstract
Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine),a natural hormone which has been shown to resynchronize circadian rhythms and induce sleep in humans (Arendt et al., 1987; Dawson and Encel, 1993; Reiter, 1991; Wurtman, 1986), is currently being marketed widely as a dietary supplement to alleviate desynchronosis (desynchronization of physiological and behavioral rhythms) and assist in obtaining quality sleep. Desynchronosis often results from rapid shifts in work schedules from day to night, or from shifts in the light- dark cycle due to time zone crossing. Symptoms resulting from desynchronosis include fatigue, sleepiness, lethargy, insomnia, gastrointestinal tract disorders, and poor mental performance (for review see Comperatore and Krueger, 1990). Melatonin therapy has been demonstrated to be effective in preventing sleep loss and in maintaining alertness following travel across multiple time zones (Arendt and Broadway, 1987; Comperatore et al., 1996; Petrie et al., 1989). Thus, melatonin can be a potentially effective chronobiotic and ameliorate desynchronosis during travel.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA334061
Entities
People
- Carlos A. Comperatore
Organizations
- United States Army Aeromedical Research Lab