Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using melatonin as follows:
Metabolic side-effects
- Melatonin intake by diabetic individuals can result in poor blood sugar control and episodes of hyperglycemia.
- Individuals with history of poorly controlled diabetes, taking melatonin, can present with increased frequency of episodes of confusion, dry mouth, frequent urination, increased thirst and hunger, dry skin, and blurred vision.
Musculoskeletal side-effects
- Melatonin intake, especially in individuals with seizure history, occasionally carries the risk of lowering the threshold for seizures, thereby, resulting in increased seizure activity.
Immune system side-effects
- Melatonin intake in high doses, especially in individuals with compromised immune system, can help with boosting the immune response. Thus, melatonin intake can lead to reduced risk of opportunistic infections, thereby, promoting overall health.
Sexual side-effects
- Melatonin intake, in individuals belonging to active sexual age group, can occasionally carry the risk of resulting in erectile dysfunction in men, menstrual irregularities in women, and compromised interest for sex in both.
