An older adult is having difficulty sleeping and asks a nurse, "My neighbor told me that I should take melatonin to help me sleep. What do you think about this?" The nurse responds to the individual's question using the knowledge that: (Select all that apply.)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the natural state, melatonin is endogenously produced by the pineal gland and is an important signal in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin must be used with caution in patients who are taking other medications that cause drowsiness or have central nervous system depressant effects. Studies have demonstrated that melatonin is effective at decreasing sleep onset latency, improving quality of sleep, and improving morning wakefulness. Melatonin is available in both an immediate and extended release form, and both forms are effective. There are adverse effects to melatonin, which include dizziness, nausea, and drowsiness.

An Older Adult Is Having Difficulty Sleeping and Asks a Nurse