WHAT IS THIS MEDICINE?
Circadin contains melatonin, a hormone naturally produced by
your brain to signal that it's time to sleep. The prolonged-release formulation
mimics the gradual rise of melatonin that occurs naturally at night, helping to
establish a normal sleep cycle. It is licensed for short-term treatment of
primary insomnia in adults aged 55 and over.
2. HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICINE
Take ONE tablet 1–2 hours before bedtime, after food. Swallow
whole — do not crush or chew, as this destroys the prolonged-release mechanism.
The recommended course is 3 weeks, with a maximum of 13 weeks. Take only on
nights when you intend to sleep for at least 7–8 hours.
3. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
Common side effects include the following. Contact your
doctor or pharmacist if any side effect worries you.
|
Side Effect |
Frequency |
What To Do |
|
Headache |
Common |
Usually mild; try paracetamol if needed |
|
Nasopharyngitis |
Common |
Manage symptoms; consult doctor if persistent |
|
Back pain |
Common |
Rest; contact the doctor if severe |
|
Drowsiness |
Uncommon |
Do not drive or operate machinery after taking |
|
Irritability |
Uncommon |
Monitor mood; inform your doctor |
|
Abdominal pain |
Uncommon |
Take after food to reduce stomach upset |
|
Hypersensitivity rash |
Rare |
Stop and seek medical advice |
|
⚠ IMPORTANT WARNING |
|
Circadin may cause drowsiness. Do not drive or
use machinery for 5 hours after taking it. Avoid alcohol as it reduces the
effectiveness of melatonin and increases drowsiness. |
4. WHO SHOULD NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE
Not recommended for patients under 55 years for insomnia
(different indications may apply). Use with caution in patients with liver
disease (reduced clearance), autoimmune conditions, or those taking fluvoxamine
or other CYP1A2 inhibitors. Not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding.
5. DRUG INTERACTIONS
Fluvoxamine and ciprofloxacin significantly increase
melatonin blood levels — avoid this combination. Sedatives, benzodiazepines,
and alcohol increase drowsiness. Rifampicin reduces effectiveness. Melatonin
may affect the efficacy of warfarin.
6. HOW TO STORE
Store below 25°C in a dry place. Keep out of sight and reach
of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack.
7. PRESCRIPTION STATUS
Prescription Only Medicine (POM). However, in some countries,
lower-dose melatonin products may be available over the counter. Circadin 2mg
PR requires a prescription.
|
💚 PATIENT TIP |
|
Dim the lights and switch off screens (TV,
phone, tablet) at least an hour before taking Circadin. Exposure to bright
blue light suppresses your body's natural melatonin, working against the
medicine. |
8. PHARMACIST'S NOTE
Counsel patients that Circadin must be swallowed whole — the
prolonged-release coating is essential to the mechanism of action. Advise
patients to maintain good sleep hygiene (consistent bedtime, dark room, no
screens) alongside drug therapy for best results.
9. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
|
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS |
|
Q: Who can take Circadin? A: Circadin is licensed for adults aged 55 and
above with primary insomnia. It may be used off-label in younger patients and
for jet lag under medical supervision. |
|
Q: Is melatonin
addictive? A: No — melatonin does not cause dependence or
withdrawal. It is not a sleeping pill in the traditional sense; it helps
regulate your sleep-wake rhythm. |
|
Q: Will it make me groggy
the next morning? A: When taken correctly, 1–2 hours before bed,
morning grogginess is uncommon. Taking it too late at night increases this
risk. |
|
Q: Can it help with jet
lag? A: Yes — melatonin is widely used for jet lag.
Your doctor or pharmacist can advise on the best timing based on your travel
direction. |
|
Q: Can I take it with my
other medicines? A: Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all
your medicines. Fluvoxamine (an antidepressant) and ciprofloxacin can
significantly raise melatonin levels and should not be taken together. |
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