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Published on: January 25, 2016
Zaleplon increases nocturnal melatonin secretion in humans
A L Morera1, P Abreu-Gonzalez, M Henry
1Department of Internal Medicine, Dermatology and Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of La Laguna, La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain. amorera@ull.es
Summary
The hypnotic drug zaleplon significantly increased nocturnal melatonin secretion in healthy adults. This effect on melatonin levels may be a factor for clinicians to consider when prescribing hypnotics.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Sleep Medicine
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Insomnia is a prevalent sleep disorder affecting many individuals.
- Commonly prescribed hypnotics can suppress nocturnal melatonin production.
- Melatonin plays a crucial role in regulating sleep-wake cycles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of the hypnotic drug zaleplon on melatonin secretion.
- To determine if zaleplon affects nocturnal melatonin levels in healthy individuals.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, randomized, cross-over study involving 12 healthy male participants.
- Administration of 10 mg zaleplon or placebo orally at 22:00 h.
- Blood samples collected at multiple time points (22:00, 23:00, 00:00, 01:00, 02:00, and 12:00 h) for melatonin analysis via ELISA.
Main Results:
- Zaleplon significantly elevated melatonin levels at 23:00, 00:00, and 01:00 h compared to placebo.
- No significant differences in melatonin levels were observed at 22:00, 02:00, or 12:00 h.
- Zaleplon increased the Area Under the Curve (AUC) of melatonin secretion by 46%.
Conclusions:
- Zaleplon enhances nocturnal melatonin secretion without affecting daytime levels.
- The impact on melatonin secretion should be considered by clinicians when selecting hypnotic treatments.
- Further research may explore the clinical implications of zaleplon's effect on melatonin.
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