Citation

Starr KE, Burns K, Demler TL. Int. Clin. Psychopharmacol. 2021; 36(6): 296-304.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/YIC.0000000000000369

PMID

34605448

Abstract

Melatonin, the endogenous hormone that helps maintain circadian rhythm, has been used exogenously for both primary and secondary sleep disorders. While the effects of melatonin given prior to planned sleep and to restore normal circadian sleep phases have been well studied, there is little information on the use of melatonin as a pharmacotherapeutic intervention for around-the-clock sedation to prevent agitation and aggressive patient behaviors. This is the first case report to our knowledge of melatonin used throughout the day, as a scheduled dose for prolonged treatment duration, to reduce aggression in a patient with severe mental illness.

Language: en