From the Guidelines
For sleep issues, the most effective treatment option is not Baldomero, as there is no evidence to support its use, but rather melatonin at doses of 3 mg taken at bedtime, which can be titrated up to 15 mg as needed, as recommended by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine in 2023 1. The use of melatonin for sleep issues is supported by recent guidelines, which suggest that it can be effective in improving sleep quality and duration.
- The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends the use of melatonin for the treatment of isolated REM sleep behavior disorder, with a starting dose of 3 mg taken at bedtime 1.
- The guidelines also suggest that melatonin can be effective in improving sleep quality and duration in patients with circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders, such as advanced sleep-wake phase disorder and delayed sleep-wake phase disorder 1.
- However, it is essential to note that the evidence for the use of melatonin in sleep issues is not universally positive, and some studies have raised concerns about its safety and efficacy in certain populations 1.
- Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting melatonin therapy, especially if you have a history of sleep disorders or are taking other medications.
- In addition to melatonin, good sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding screens before bedtime, and creating a relaxing sleep environment, can also help improve sleep quality and duration.
- Other treatment options, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia and prescription sleep aids, may also be effective in improving sleep quality and duration, but should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
From the FDA Drug Label
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - Vitamin Bottle Label Safrel Melatonin 3mg Tablets: Helps establish normal sleep patterns 100%Drug-free and non-habit forming melatonin is a nighttime sleep aid for occassional sleeplessness. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Recommended Treatment for Sleep Issues
- The recommended treatment for sleep issues, possibly with Melatonin, is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) 2, 3.
- CBT-I is a multi-component treatment that targets difficulties with initiating and/or maintaining sleep and is delivered over the course of six to eight sessions 2.
- CBT-I has been shown to be effective in improving sleep-onset difficulties, sleep efficiency, and severity of insomnia disorder 4, 3.
Dosage of Melatonin
- There is no specific dosage of Melatonin mentioned in the provided studies as the primary focus is on non-pharmacologic approaches and CBT-I.
- However, Melatonin has been shown to be effective in improving sleep-onset difficulties and is often used as a complementary therapy 4.
Non-Pharmacologic Approaches
- Non-pharmacologic approaches, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and cognitive therapy, are recommended as first-line treatment for insomnia 5, 4.
- These approaches have been shown to be effective in improving sleep quality and reducing symptoms of insomnia 5, 4.
- Cognitive therapy, in particular, has been identified as a key mediator of change in CBT-I, with changes in dysfunctional beliefs about sleep being a significant predictor of symptom improvement 6.