Melatonin may safely reduce chronic musculoskeletal pain, study finds
· News-MedicalMelatonin for chronic pain
"What's exciting is that melatonin may also help manage chronic pain, opening the door to reducing reliance on medications that come with more risks."
"For many patients, pain doesn't exist in isolation and is closely tied to poor sleep," Mr Wu said.
"Melatonin appears to target both, which makes it particularly useful for people managing chronic pain."
Across the trials, the dose and timing of melatonin varied depending on the condition and setting. For chronic musculoskeletal pain, doses typically ranged from 3 to 10 mg, with 3 mg per day the most commonly used. For postoperative pain, doses ranged from 1 to 10 mg, with 5 to 6 mg most common. Melatonin was generally taken at bedtime or up to one hour before sleep.
Melatonin safety, side effects and access in Australia
Melatonin is typically low cost – often less than $1.50 per tablet in Australia – and is generally well tolerated, with mild, short-term side effects and no evidence of dependence.
"The level of pain relief we observed is comparable to some conventional treatments, but this does not mean melatonin should replace them," Mr Wu said. "Rather, it may offer a safer additional option within a broader pain management plan."
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