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Melatonin: Can It Exacerbate Mg Symptoms?
Dr. Forest Ray published an article with Myasthenia Gravis News, https://forumsstg.myastheniagravisnews.com/news-posts/2020/11/10/melatonin-supplements-may-worsen-mg-symptoms-case-series-suggests/, that overviews a case series that suggests melatonin supplements may intensify MG effects. Several studies indicate that the over-the-counter sleep medication may stimulate the immune system or interact with additional medicines. Knowledge, though, is still limited in regards to the number of participants of research studies.
Melatonin is an over-the-counter supplement typically used to treat sleeplessness. Has a medical professional ever recommended you try melatonin, and was the individual aware you have MG? Was the recommender an MG specialist?
If you are a patient and have attempted melatonin, did you have noticeable changes in your MG symptoms? Have you ever used it for an extended period?
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9 Replies
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I used melatonin for sleep for years successfully. After diagnosed with MG, I researched every Rx & OTC I was using and found that information you referenced & quit melatonin immediately. I am not sure if was having any affects on my MG. My Primary Care Dr has given me a low dose Trazadone which works as well and does not exacerbate my MG. My neurologist was not aware of melatonin’s effect, but agreed it was best to cease using it.
Thank you for the post & heads up. It is wise for anyone with MG to diligently research everything that goes into their body from medication to food.
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Thanks, Tim. My one year of being diagnosed is just coming up, so I am still learning more every day myself!
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I have been taking melatonin for many months. I think that my MG is getting gradually worse. I also think that it is doing nothing for my insomnia. I’m quitting as of right now.
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Jodi,
I’m not sure what the appropriate greeting is for an anniversary of a diagnosis of MG, but congratulations for your fight against it, and for your positive spirit. I have a one year anniversary myself coming up this September.
I have certainly learned a lot about this neuro-muscular challenge, but in many ways I think I am still in kindergarten.
Be well and stay strong. -
I have been taking Melatonin 2.5 mg for years to help me sleep. When I read that it might make my MG symptoms worse, I contacted my neuromuscular specialist and asked her if I needed to stop taking it. She said there were no counter indications and I can continue to use it. I did not notice any changes in my symptoms but the disease is one that fluctuates without knowing the reasons why. A good day can be followed by a not so great day, but the melatonin doesn’t seem to be a factor. At the suggestion of my daughter since prednisone interfered with my sleep, I did invest in a “grounding” fitted sheet and pillow case and that has helped me more than anything else I’ve tried with getting decent sleep. I really was a skeptic but willing to try anything that doesn’t cause more problems. I’ve been sleeping soundly on the grounding sheet since I got them two weeks ago, and I can only say that I hope it lasts.
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I’ve been taking melatonin for years (3mg) without any side effects except falling asleep quickly. It’s also supposed to be good for “everything” like Vit D. I rather take that than anti depressant.
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I took melatonin before and after my diagnosis but GP now reluctant to prescribe. No longer available over counter in UK but got some in US and I find it brilliant. However I only use it for max two days in a row. Must be supplemented with other measures to help sleep that others have shared. Does not seem to adversely affect me. Chronic use might be different. I would check with your NM senior Consultant.
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I wanted to add, that I was taking 5 mg a melatonin. I took it for several months and although I can’t describe the effect to melatonin, it seemed to me that my MG symptoms were getting a little worse. I stopped taking the melatonin about two or three months ago, and I am not noticed any improvement in my ability to fall asleep or stay asleep. I have always been able to fall asleep, but I have not been able to stay asleep. Sometimes I wake up after only one hour and cannot go back to sleep. That was even worth checking the melatonin. And I have not noticed any difference since I stopped taking it. So the only effect that I can see from my taking the melatonin was the cost of the melatonin.
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My neurologist has said I could use Melatonin without any side effects. I use it occasionally, 5mg, and have not had any side effects. I think because of this “snowflake” disease, it affects patients differently.
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