The connection between melatonin, a hormone linked to sleep, and epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurring seizures, explored.
In the world of epilepsy management, a growing area of interest is the use of melatonin as a complementary treatment. While the evidence remains preliminary and inconclusive, melatonin shows promise in potentially reducing seizure severity and improving sleep quality.
After a suspected first seizure, it is advisable for individuals to speak with a doctor. When it comes to melatonin, a 2016 review found that studies into its use for epilepsy up to that point were of poor quality and had mixed results. However, more recent research suggests that melatonin may have some benefits, particularly in terms of sleep quality improvement.
Melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, plays a crucial role in modulating sleep, especially through MT1 receptor action. This could help normalize sleep patterns in epilepsy patients, as poor sleep is a known seizure trigger. Research in this area is currently active and promising.
Despite the preliminary nature of the evidence, some small-scale studies have found that melatonin may show promise when used alongside conventional antiseizure medications. For instance, a study with 60 participants found that people taking valproic acid, an epilepsy medication, with a melatonin supplement had less severe epilepsy symptoms and higher quality sleep than those taking valproic acid with a placebo.
However, it's important to note that the clinical evidence status for melatonin in epilepsy management remains limited. Reviews as of 2025 indicate insufficient high-quality evidence to support routine melatonin use for seizure control, though it appears generally safe. More high-quality, large-scale clinical trials are needed before melatonin can be recommended as part of standard epilepsy management.
Patients should consult their neurologists before adding melatonin to their regimen to avoid interactions and ensure coordinated care. It's also crucial to remember that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved melatonin for the treatment of epilepsy.
Epilepsy is a treatable condition in most cases. Antiepileptic drugs can stop seizures in around 70% of people with epilepsy, according to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons. Finding the right antiepileptic drug may take some trial and error.
In some cases, epilepsy that is resistant to medications may be treated with surgery. Brain surgery can help stop or reduce seizures in suitable candidates, defined as those whose seizures happen in a single part of the brain, do not respond to medication, and will not cause severe issues with daily function if a surgeon removes the affected area.
The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies several medical issues that can trigger epilepsy, including brain trauma during pregnancy or birth, congenital abnormalities, head injury, stroke, brain infections, genetic conditions, and brain tumors. Approximately half of all people with epilepsy have an unidentified cause for their seizures.
Recent research, such as a 2023 observational study involving 20 children with epilepsy, has found that melatonin supplementation can improve sleep quality and reduce daytime sleepiness. However, no research has explored the long-term side effects of melatonin.
In conclusion, while melatonin holds potential as an adjunctive therapy for epilepsy, particularly for improving sleep disturbances and possibly reducing seizure severity, more high-quality, large-scale clinical trials are needed before it can be recommended as part of standard epilepsy management. Patients should consult their neurologists before adding melatonin to their regimen to avoid interactions and ensure coordinated care.
