Melatonin - Some people shouldn't take it - Sleep Disorders Message Board

MMMarie · 06-18-2002, 01:07 AM

Hi. I was quite interested in trying melatonin, because I often take hours and hours to get to sleep. But after doing some research, I found out that it is a bad idea for people to take melatonin if they have an auto-immune disease. Apparently it activates your immune system, which is something you don't want if you have a-i disease (i.e. rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, etc.).

Just thought I should pass that info. along.

mel333 · 06-20-2002, 11:55 PM

Hi MMarie,

This is very interesting info. I took some the other night over two nights and am wondering if it may have triggered muscle problems as I have a disc bulge in my neck and get arthritis type pain. Do you know whether this could be a factor? I will look into it and thanks for this info.

Mel

drs · 06-21-2002, 07:20 AM

Yup, I've read some stuff on this too. Anything that messes with the seratonin or melatonin levels in the body, I would be cautious of. Do a search. Diana

claujuh · 06-24-2002, 08:25 PM

i DID take melatonin one night, when i didn't have any cyclobenzeprine, prescribed by my primary care doc. it wasn't until an hour or so after i took it that i read the back of the box and freaked out cause i have several autoimmune diseases......nothing bad came of it, but the melatonin also did not help me to get to sleep and stay asleep.