Solutions through Compounding: Sleepless in Australia – Melatonin

Abstract

Melatonin a hormone produced in the pineal gland from the amino acid tryptophan, is known to be a highly effective antioxidant, free radical scavenger, and a primary circadian pacemaker.1 Concentrations of melatonin are low during the day and elevated at night, with a characteristic rapid rise in concentration after dark.2 Because of its possible role in influencing circadian rhythm, melatonin has been used to alleviate jet lag and other disorders resulting from delaying sleep.