Melatonin as a neurotransmitter

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers which facilitate communication between neurons and from neurons to the brain. Melatonin is one example of these neurotransmitters. Melatonin acts as a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating circadian rhythms and affecting the sleep-wake cycle. The production of melanin is influenced by the body’s internal clock, which responds to light and darkness exposure.

Melatonin is a central player in the regulation of the circadian rhythm, which helps to synchronize your body and its sleep cycle along with the day-night cycle. It is typically released in the evening or long bouts of tiredness, which signals the body that it is time to go to sleep. Melatonin is usually released and linked to the eye’s exposure of darkness. As the daylight diminishes, melatonin levels in the blood rise steadily, which promotes drowsiness and thus signals the transition to a sleepy phase.

Melatonin works in a rather simple way. Its sleep-inducing effects are administered based on its interaction with melatonin receptors, particularly MT1 and MT2 receptors in the brain. When they are activated, they promote sleep.

Melatonin Supplements are administered to people who have problems with their sleep cycle and are unable to feel well-rested or sleep on time. These supplements work by mimicking natural melatonin production in the body, as they follow a natural rise pattern in response to decreasing light levels. They are sometimes also used to alleviate jet leg and to support working personnel who work in night shifts.