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Plasma concentrations of melatonin in panic disorder
I M McIntyre1, F K Judd, G D Burrows
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|April 1, 1990
Summary
Patients with panic disorder, particularly those unmedicated, show higher nocturnal melatonin levels and potential phase delays. This suggests a link between panic disorder and altered melatonin regulation, differing from medicated patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Melatonin is a key hormone regulating circadian rhythms.
- Previous research suggests altered melatonin in certain psychiatric conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate nocturnal plasma melatonin concentrations in patients with panic disorder compared to healthy controls.
- To explore potential differences in melatonin profiles between unmedicated and medicated panic disorder patients.
Main Methods:
- Nocturnal plasma melatonin levels were measured.
- Seven patients with panic disorder and eight healthy controls participated.
- Patients were categorized based on psychotropic medication status.
Main Results:
- Unmedicated panic disorder patients exhibited significantly higher melatonin concentrations from 4:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. compared to controls.
- A possible phase delay in melatonin rhythm was observed in unmedicated patients.
- Patients recently off medication showed a decreased melatonin rhythm.
Conclusions:
- Panic disorder may be associated with altered nocturnal melatonin secretion and timing.
- These findings suggest a distinct melatonin profile in unmedicated panic disorder patients.
- Melatonin rhythm alterations in panic disorder could be influenced by medication status and stress.