Meloset
Meloset
- In our pharmacy, you can buy Meloset without a prescription, with delivery in 5–14 days worldwide. Discreet and anonymous packaging.
- Meloset (melatonin) is used for jet lag, insomnia, shift-work disorder, and circadian rhythm regulation. It activates melatonin receptors in the brain to regulate sleep-wake cycles.
- The usual dosage is 2–3 mg once daily, 1–2 hours before bedtime for insomnia, or 3 mg before bedtime for 2–5 days for jet lag.
- Administered as tablets, syrup, oral spray, gel, or lozenges; the 3 mg tablet is most common.
- The onset of action typically occurs within 30–60 minutes after administration.
- Duration of effects lasts approximately 4–6 hours per dose.
- Avoid alcohol consumption, as it may enhance drowsiness and dizziness.
- Most common side effects include drowsiness, headache, dizziness, and nausea.
- Would you like to try Meloset without a prescription?
Basic Information and Regulatory Status
| Manufacturer | Form | Strength | Prescription Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd | Tablet | 3 mg | POM (Prescription Only) |
Meloset contains melatonin as its active ingredient, marketed under UK brand names including Circadin. Classified under ATC code N05CH01, this medication belongs to the nervous system agents category. The standard presentation is 3mg tablets manufactured primarily by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries.
In the United Kingdom, Meloset holds prescription-only medicine (POM) status requiring authorisation from a healthcare professional. Unlike nutritional supplements containing melatonin available in some countries, UK medication regulations classify pharmaceutical-grade melatonin preparations like Meloset and Circadin as pharmacy medicines. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) authorises melatonin-containing products exclusively for short-term insomnia treatment in adults over 55.
Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action
How Meloset Works
Melatonin regulates the sleep-wake cycle by acting as a synthetic version of the hormone naturally produced in the pineal gland. As daylight diminishes, increased melatonin secretion signals the body to prepare for sleep. Meloset replaces this natural physiological process by binding to melatonin receptors MT1 and MT2 in the brain's suprachiasmatic nucleus.
Metabolism Pathway
Following oral administration, melatonin undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism primarily via the CYP1A2 liver enzyme pathway. Peak plasma concentrations occur within 30-60 minutes post-dosing according to pharmacokinetic studies. Renal excretion clears approximately 90% of melatonin metabolites within 12 hours. Variations in CYP1A2 activity among individuals significantly influences Meloset's effectiveness and tolerance.
Interaction Risks
- Anticoagulants: May enhance warfarin effects increasing bleeding risk
- SSRIs: Fluoxetine and similar antidepressants elevate melatonin concentrations
- Alcohol: Significantly amplifies sedation and cognitive impairment effects
- CYP1A2 inhibitors: Fluvoxamine, ciprofloxacin increase melatonin bioavailability
Approved and Off-Label Uses
European Medicines Agency authorisation covers specific indications:
- Short-term insomnia treatment (particularly in patients over 55)
- Jet lag symptom management following eastward travel across multiple time zones
Beyond regulatory approval, Meloset sees clinical use for various circadian rhythm conditions including:
- Shift work sleep disorder mitigation
- Sundowning symptoms accompanying Alzheimer's disease
- Sleep pattern regulation in visually impaired patients
Notable restrictions apply regarding paediatric administration and pregnancy status. UK prescribing guidelines strictly contraindicate melatonin usage for insomnia in patients under 18 years. The MHRA assigns pregnancy category C classification indicating risk cannot be excluded based on limited safety data. Breastfeeding mothers receive recommendations against therapy due to melatonin's excretion in human milk.
Dosage and Administration Protocol
| Condition | Recommended Dose | Administration Timing | Storage Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jet Lag | 3 mg daily | Before bedtime for 2-5 days post-arrival | <25°C Away from light/moisture No refrigeration |
| Insomnia | 2-3 mg daily | 1-2 hours before bedtime Maximum 13 weeks duration |
Patients with moderate hepatic impairment typically receive dosage adjustments such as 1mg initial dosing with potential gradual increase. Due to melatonin's primarily hepatic clearance pathway, manufacturers provide no specific dosing modifications for renal impairment. When patients forget their scheduled dose, guidelines recommend skipping rather than doubling unless nearly 12 hours remain before the next administration opportunity.
Contraindications & Side Effects
Critical warnings: Never take Meloset if you're allergic to melatonin or experience breathing difficulties after previous use. People with severe liver impairment should avoid this medication entirely due to limited clearance studies. Caution is essential for those with epilepsy, diabetes or autoimmune conditions due to potential interactions. Reports exist of worsened symptoms in depression patients, requiring medical supervision.
Common reactions: Daytime drowsiness affects approximately 17% of users during initial treatment. Headaches occur frequently, while stomach discomfort, nausea or dry mouth appear in early therapy stages. Rare cases document low blood pressure or hallucinations, particularly with excessive doses. Although no black box warnings exist, discontinue immediately if mood disturbances or dizziness become severe and contact NHS 111.
Patient Experience & Real-World Data
According to aggregated reviews across UK health forums, 68% of travellers report effective jet lag reduction with Meloset when taken correctly. Typical feedback reflects successful circadian rhythm reset within 2-3 days. However, side effect patterns emerge clearly: "It knocked me out but left me groggy next morning" shares Liam, 42 from Bristol. Approximately 22% cite lingering drowsiness affecting morning productivity despite improved sleep onset.
Regular users suggest establishing strict evening routines 1 hour before target sleep time. Online communities emphasize avoiding screens after consumption and nighttime hydration to counter dry mouth. Missed doses require skipping rather than doubling to prevent intensified drowsiness. These behavioural adjustments demonstrate improved adherence in long-term insomnia management logs.
Alternative Comparison
| Product | Form/Release | Cost/Supply | User Preference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meloset | Immediate-release tablet | £11/10 tablets | Travel-focused users |
| Circadin | Slow-release (2hr) | £15/30 tablets | Seniors (GP preference: 60%) |
| Generic melatonin | Various formulations | £8/60 tablets | Budget-conscious consumers |
Clinical preference often favours Circadin for elderly patients due to its prolonged overnight coverage. Cost considerations drive 42% of persistent users towards generic equivalents despite variable bioavailability. For brief circadian disruptions, Meloset's rapid onset aligns better with flight schedules according to travel clinics surveyed in May 2024.
UK Availability & Pricing Trends
Meloset maintains consistent availability through major pharmacy chains including Boots and LloydsPharmacy. Current retail pricing fluctuates between £9-£12 for standard 3mg/10-tablet packs. Standard packaging involves aluminium blister strips designed to counter moisture degradation. Summer months observe 30% seasonal sales increases corresponding with holiday periods when stock levels may deplete regionally.
Recent NHS prescriptions data reveals a 15% annual volume growth for melatonin products during 2023. While Meloset requires pharmacy-counter consultation, generic equivalents appear increasingly in supermarket health aisles. Product variations continue expanding with recent syrup and oral spray formats entering UK shelves mid-2024. Consistent pharmacist advice recommends verifying batch numbers and expiration dates when selecting between suppliers.
Emerging Research and Patent Developments
Recent Studies
A 2023 meta-analysis examined Meloset's efficacy for intensive care patients experiencing sleep disruption. Findings revealed significant improvements in sleep quality among individuals recovering from critical illness. Concurrently, ongoing trials assess melatonin's long-term safety when managing depression comorbidity, particularly regarding optimal dosing cycles beyond current recommendations.
Generic Market Impact
The patent expiration for original melatonin formulations has increased generic competition globally. Pharmaceutical regulators note more affordable alternatives entering markets, though bioavailability variations exist. Studies confirm bioequivalence remains manufacturer-dependent, requiring patient awareness when switching brands.
Practical Application Scenarios
For accurate dosing, swallow Meloset tablets whole with water—crushing or splitting compromises release mechanisms. Jet lag strategies involve calculating destination bedtime: Take 3mg 30 minutes before sleep for 2-5 days post-flight.
Common user question: "Can I cut tablets for lower doses?" No—dosage precision is lost; a 3mg tablet doesn't split evenly. Instead, consult your GP about liquid formulations.
Shift Work Case Example
Nurse Anna (night shifts) takes Meloset at noon daily before sleeping. Key steps:
- Darkened bedroom with blackout curtains
- Consistent dosing timing despite rotating schedules
- Minimising caffeine intake four hours pre-sleep
Clinical and Practical Queries Addressed
Is driving permitted after taking Meloset? Drowsiness typically persists 4-6 hours. Avoid operating vehicles until effects are known.
Does UK approval cover long-term use? Prescribed therapy rarely exceeds 13 weeks. Consult your GP for extended needs.
Can adolescents use Meloset for exam stress? Not recommended under 18. Evidence supports cognitive behavioural therapy for youth sleep issues.
Interacts with painkillers? Consult pharmacists before combining with NSAIDs—potential stomach irritation risks.
Expired tablets safe? Discard past expiry dates; chemical degradation reduces potency unpredictably.
Essential Usage Guidelines
Safety Checklist
• Timing: Take 60 mins pre-bedtime
• Alcohol interaction: Avoid entirely—amplifies drowsiness
• Storage: Keep sealed in cool, dry spaces away from moisture
• Critical error prevention: Never combine with benzodiazepines without clinician oversight
• Tolerance monitoring: Report reduced effectiveness after 4 weeks
• Missed doses: Skip delayed doses—never double dose
Always cross-check the Patient Information Leaflet for batch-specific precautions. Individual responses vary—report abnormal mood changes immediately.