Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Melatonin as follows:
- Melatonin is extensively metabolized in the liver. If liver function is deficient, the metabolism of melatonin can be compromised. This can lead to increased blood levels of the medication for longer periods of time, resulting in increased risk for side-effects and consequent toxicity. So, melatonin could be avoided for an alternative medication or used with caution and dose adjusted accordingly, in individuals with hepatic dysfunction, with periodical monitoring for liver functions and development of any toxic symptoms.
- Melatonin and active metabolites of the drug are mainly excreted in urine, by the kidneys. Individuals with renal disease cannot excrete the metabolites of melatonin normally, which allows the metabolites of medication to stay in blood circulation for longer time, resulting in toxicity and consequent side-effects. So, melatonin must be used with caution in individuals with compromised renal function, with periodical monitoring for renal functions and development of any toxic symptoms.
- Melatonin must be cautiously used in individuals with history of seizure disorder, as melatonin intake carries the risk of lowering the threshold for seizures, thereby, resulting in seizure activity.
