Skip to content
ClinCalc Pro
Menu
Calculators Drugs Pathways AI Dx Donate Get the App
Melatonin Receptor Agonist — Hypnotic

Melatonin Modified-Release (Elderly Insomnia)

Brand names: Circadin

Modified-release melatonin is a hormone preparation licensed for the short-term treatment of primary insomnia, notably in older adults.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

Melatonin is an endogenous hormone that acts on melatonin receptors involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle and circadian rhythm.

Prescribing in practice

  • Melatonin can cause daytime drowsiness, so patients should be cautioned about driving or operating machinery if affected, which is especially relevant in frail older people at risk of falls.
  • It is intended for short-term use, with the need for continued treatment reviewed regularly.
  • It is metabolised hepatically and concentrations can be affected by drugs that inhibit or induce its metabolism, including fluvoxamine.

Monitoring

Review sleep response, daytime functioning and continued need for treatment periodically, with attention to falls risk in the elderly.

Counselling the patient

  • Take the modified-release tablet whole, after food, shortly before bedtime.
  • Be cautious with driving or hazardous tasks if you feel drowsy the next day.

Evidence & guidelines

Modified-release melatonin is licensed for short-term primary insomnia and supported by NICE guidance in older adults.

Reference: NICE TA739 (Melatonin for Insomnia 2021); Circadin SPC; Leger et al. BMJ 2004; AGS Beers Criteria 2023; STOPP/START v3; Confirm identity and dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC) and NICE. Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Calculators
Drugs
Pathways