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Updated: Sep 25, 2025
12:02
Human Primary Trophoblast Cell Culture Model to Study the Protective Effects of Melatonin Against Hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced Disruption
Published on: July 30, 2016
16.1K
Is there a role for melatonin in the ICU?
G A Richards1, A Bentley2, P D Gopalan3
1Department of Critical Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Summary
This review explores melatonin, a hormone with anti-inflammatory and neuro-protective effects, for critical care. Evidence suggests potential benefits in sleep, delirium, and sepsis management for intensive care unit patients.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Critical Care Medicine
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Recent advancements have elucidated the multifaceted roles of melatonin, a hormone known for regulating mitochondrial function, inflammation, oxidative stress, and sleep.
- Melatonin's physiological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties, suggest potential applications in clinical medicine, particularly in critical care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the physiological basis for using melatonin in the critical care setting.
- To examine the current evidence supporting melatonin's utility in intensive care unit (ICU) patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating melatonin's physiological roles and therapeutic potential.
- Analysis of research focusing on melatonin's impact on sleep, delirium, and sepsis in critical care.
Main Results:
- Melatonin exhibits properties relevant to critical care, such as immune enhancement and mitochondrial function regulation.
- Emerging evidence supports melatonin's potential role in managing sleep disturbances, delirium, and sepsis within the ICU.
Conclusions:
- Melatonin presents a promising therapeutic avenue for critical care, supported by its diverse physiological actions.
- Further research is warranted to fully establish melatonin's efficacy and optimal use in intensive care settings.
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