Researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston are currently testing a new drug that may effectively alter the body’s inherent sleep rhythms. The medication, known as Tasimelteon, affects the body’s production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates wakefulness and fatigue.
In initial clinical trials, researchers found that Tasimelteon helped those with sleeping problems fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Unlike many other sleeping aides currently on the market, Tasimelteon is non-additive.
As a potential cure for jet lag, Tasimelteon will likely be welcomed by a number of people, including:
- nightshift workers
- pilots and flight attendants
- soldiers
- traveling businessmen
- traveling sports teams
Details of Initial Studies
The first studies on Tasimelteon involved a total of 450 people who went to bed five hours earlier than they normally would to mimic the effects of traveling to a different time zone. Half of the participants were given Tasimelteon, and the other half was given placebo.
Participants who took Tasimelteon experienced anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours more sleep than those who took the placebo.
Pros and Cons of Taking Natural Melatonin to Battle Sleeping Problems
Along with current prescription sleeping aides, taking natural melatonin pills is another way that some people try to induce sleep. Unlike prescription sleep medication, melatonin pills are natural and non-addictive.
However, on the downside, these natural sleeping aides aren’t FDA-regulated, which means they can widely vary in strength, purity and overall safety. Additionally, melatonin hasn’t been proven to be effective for nightshift workers or jet-lagged travelers, as multiple studies on the subject have had mixed results.
To avoid any serious health complications, be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new medication, including natural melatonin.
Researchers Plan Further Testing
While initial Tasimelteon studies have had promising results, researchers admit that further clinical trials need to be performed. In the next series of tests on Tasimelteon, researchers plan on examining whether the drug has any residual sedative effects.
If all goes well, Tasimelteon should be available for distribution and public use within the next few years.
(Source: BBC Health News)
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