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Ramelteon for Delayed Sleep-wake Phase Disorder: A Case Report.
Masahiro Takeshima1, Tetsuo Shimizu2, Hiroyasu Ishikawa
1Department of Neuropsychiatry, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan.
Summary
Ramelteon, a melatonin receptor agonist, effectively treated a 15-year-old girl with delayed sleep-wake phase disorder (DSWPD). The treatment normalized her sleep-wake and biological rhythms, resolving DSWPD symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Sleep Medicine
- Chronobiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Delayed sleep-wake phase disorder (DSWPD) is a circadian rhythm disorder.
- Melatonin receptor agonists are a recent therapeutic development for DSWPD.
- Limited clinical data exists on the efficacy of melatonin receptor agonists for DSWPD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the effect of a melatonin receptor agonist on DSWPD.
- To report a successful case of ramelteon treatment for DSWPD.
Main Methods:
- A 15-year-old female patient diagnosed with DSWPD was treated.
- Ramelteon was administered at a dosage of 4 mg.
- Treatment was initiated at 7 PM.
Main Results:
- The patient experienced resolution of DSWPD symptoms.
- Her sleep-wake cycle normalized.
- Biological rhythms were restored to normal patterns.
Conclusions:
- Ramelteon is an effective treatment for DSWPD in adolescents.
- Melatonin receptor agonists can normalize circadian rhythms in DSWPD patients.
- This case highlights a successful therapeutic approach for DSWPD.
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