melatonin

A hormone, C₁₃H₁₆N₂O₂, derived from serotonin and produced by the pineal gland. It stimulates color change in the epidermis of amphibians and reptiles and plays a role in the function of circadian rhythms and estrous cycles in mammals.

A hormone secreted by the pineal gland. Chemically it is N-acety-5-methoxytryptamine. Research has indicated that there are daily rhythms in secretion of melatonin, in particular due to the depressing effect on melatonin production by light received by the retina. Conversely it appears that melatonin may influence the circadian rhythms of animals. There is some experimental evidence that administration of melatonin may increase the amount of sleep in people with sleep disorders. However, the evidence is not convincing and the effect is not profound. Nevertheless, the deregulation of melatonin and its availability over-the-counter has led to many people taking melatonin to help sleep, without consulting a physician.

A hormone, related to serotonin, that is secreted by the pineal gland, and stimulates colour change in the skin of reptiles, and is involved in the sleep/wake and reproductive cycles in mammals

Any material similar in its chemistry and effect to the natural hormone.

hormone secreted by the pineal gland