MELACRYST — Melatonin 1.5 mg and 3 mg

Sleep-regulating agent | Oro-dispersible films | Pack of 20 films

Therapeutic Category: Melatonin preparation; sleep–wake cycle regulator.

Active Ingredient: Melatonin Available Strengths: 1.5 mg and 3 mg per oro-dispersible film

Dosage Form: Oro-dispersible film Pack Size: 20 films

Medical Description

Melacryst contains melatonin, a hormone naturally produced by the brain in response to darkness. Melatonin helps regulate the body's internal clock and signals that it is time to sleep.

Melacryst may be used, according to its approved product information and healthcare professional advice, to support sleep timing and help manage selected sleep-related problems. Melatonin may be helpful for jet lag and certain circadian rhythm disturbances, although its effectiveness varies depending on the condition. Evidence does not consistently support its use for chronic insomnia.

The oro-dispersible film dosage form is designed to disperse in the mouth. Follow the product leaflet for the correct method of administration.

Indications and Potential Benefits

• Sleep-onset support: May help some people fall asleep more quickly.
• Sleep–wake cycle regulation: Helps signal the body's normal nighttime period.
• Jet lag: May help manage sleep difficulties following travel across time zones.
• Circadian rhythm disturbances: May be recommended in selected conditions involving a disrupted sleep schedule.
• Sleep routine support: May be useful alongside consistent sleep habits and appropriate management of the underlying problem.

Melatonin is not a universal treatment for insomnia, and persistent sleep problems may require assessment for other causes.

Mechanism of Action

Melatonin acts on MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptors involved in regulating circadian rhythms.

• Circadian regulation: Helps synchronize the body's internal clock with the light–dark cycle.
• Sleep timing: Signals biological nighttime and may facilitate sleep onset when taken at an appropriate time.
• Jet lag: May help realign sleep timing after rapid travel across time zones.

The timing of administration is important; taking melatonin at the wrong time may not provide the intended benefit.

Dosage and Administration

• Use the 1.5 mg or 3 mg strength as directed by the product leaflet or healthcare professional.
• The appropriate dose and timing depend on the reason for use, age, other medicines, and individual response.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for placing and allowing the oro-dispersible film to dissolve.
• Do not take additional films if the expected effect is not achieved.
• Avoid prolonged self-treatment without medical advice.

Important: The exact Melacryst-specific dosing schedule and approved age range should be confirmed from the local package leaflet.

Possible Side Effects

Melatonin is generally tolerated by many people during short-term use, but possible adverse effects include:

• Daytime sleepiness or fatigue.
• Headache.
• Dizziness.
• Nausea or abdominal discomfort.
• Irritability or mood changes.
• Unusual dreams or nightmares.

Avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel sleepy or dizzy. Seek medical attention for severe or unusual reactions.

Warnings and Precautions

Consult a healthcare professional before using Melacryst if you:

• Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to become pregnant.
• Have epilepsy, an autoimmune condition, liver disease, or a significant mood disorder.
• Take anticoagulants such as warfarin.
• Use sedatives, sleeping medicines, certain antidepressants, opioids, or other medicines that cause drowsiness.
• Have persistent insomnia, loud snoring, breathing interruptions during sleep, or excessive daytime sleepiness.

Avoid alcohol and other substances that increase drowsiness unless your healthcare professional advises otherwise. Keep the product securely stored away from children.

Storage

• Store according to the manufacturer's instructions on the package.
• Keep each film in its original sealed pouch until use.
• Protect from moisture and excessive heat.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date.

References

1. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), NIH — Sleep disorders and complementary health approaches. Read the official guidance
2. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), NIH — Treatment of circadian rhythm disorders. Read the guidance
3. National Institutes of Health (NIH) — Healthy sleep. Read the recommendations
4. NHS — Melatonin: side effects and safety information. Read the safety information
5. Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA) — OTC products list, including Melacryst 1.5 mg oro-dispersible film. View the EDA list

Patient Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Use Melacryst according to its approved package leaflet and the advice of a qualified healthcare professional. Melatonin may not be suitable for everyone, and its effectiveness varies by sleep condition. Seek medical advice if sleep problems persist or worsen, and do not use it as a substitute for evaluating an underlying sleep disorder.