Melatonin and its agonists: an update

Br J Psychiatry. 2008 Oct;193(4):267-9. doi: 10.1192/bjp.bp.108.050955.

Abstract

The pineal hormone melatonin is able to shift the timing of circadian rhythms, including the sleep-wake cycle, and to promote sleep. Melatonin agonists with similar properties have therapeutic potential for the treatment of circadian rhythm sleep disorders. Depression is specifically targeted by agomelatine, which is also a serotonin-2C (5-HT(2C)) antagonist.

Publication types

  • Editorial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acetamides / administration & dosage
  • Benzofurans / administration & dosage
  • Cyclopropanes / administration & dosage
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Humans
  • Indenes / administration & dosage
  • Melatonin* / agonists
  • Melatonin* / physiology
  • Melatonin* / therapeutic use
  • Receptors, Melatonin / antagonists & inhibitors*

Substances

  • Acetamides
  • Benzofurans
  • Cyclopropanes
  • Indenes
  • Receptors, Melatonin
  • agomelatine
  • ramelteon
  • Melatonin
  • tasimelteon