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Melatonin in Veterinary Medicine - Facts and Information

Melatonin

Updated on September 10, 2024

Melatonin is a hormone that may calm pets, help reduce stress and anxiety, and might even stimulate hair growth in dogs.

Melatonin

Summary

Used For:

Sleep and behavior disorder in dogs and cats, non-allergic alopecia (hair loss) in dogs, adrenal gland disorders

Brands:

Regulin®

Species:

Dogs, cats, ferrets, horses

Drug type:

Behavior

Pregnancy and lactation:

Not recommended for use in pregnant or lactating animals.

Side effects:

Sedation, potential infertility
 

General description

While Melatonin may not require a prescription, it is important to know supplements are generally not held to the same safety and efficacy standards as prescription medications but still have biological effects on the patient. Review goals and share all vitamins, supplements, medications etc. your pet is taking with your veterinarian to not only set expectations and confirm this treatment route is your best option, but also to help avoid complications. Be sure to follow all instructions provided by your vet carefully and consult your veterinarian with any questions or concerns if they arise. Melatonin as a supplement, does not have significant studies to prove its efficacy on various animal species, however it is a hormone supplement that has anecdotal evidence to support a number of potential uses in animals, including the stimulation of hair growth in dogs, managing sleep disorders, generalized anxiety improvement, managing adrenal disorders in ferrets, and seasonal head shaking syndrome in horses.

Uses

sleep disorders, destructive behavior, fear disorders, separation anxiety, stimulation of hair growth in dogs, seasonal head shaking syndrome in horses, adrenal disorders in ferrets

How it works

Melatonin works by mimicking the natural hormone produced in the body that helps eliminate stress and anxiety, and also promotes hair regrowth.

Dosage

*Information provided below outlines what a typical dose might look like. Always consult your veterinarian on the appropriate dose for your specific animal when using any vitamin, supplement, off-label or prescription products. Some vets may prescribe outside of these ranges based on specific needs of the patient. Dogs: 1 – 12 milligrams per dog 1-3 times per day depending upon the dog’s size and intended use. Cats: 1.5 – 6 milligrams per cat orally 1-2 times a day. Ferrets: 0.5 – 1 milligrams per ferret orally once a day. Horses: 12 – 15 milligrams per horse orally once a day.

Forms

Melatonin tablets are available in a variety of strengths and range from 0.5 to 3 milligram tablets. It may also be available in a liquid or implant form. It can also be found in a variety of different combination supplements. When administering a liquid form be sure to measure carefully to avoid an overdose.

Storage information & handling

Ensure labeled instructions are followed. Tablets or capsules should be stored at room temperature in a tight, light resistant, and childproof container out of the reach of pets and children.

What results can I expect?

The drug should produce a calming effect and may reduce stress and anxiety. Melatonin can also help to stimulate hair growth in certain dogs with non-allergic alopecia (hair loss).

Missed Dosage

For oral administration of melatonin, always try to give the medication dose at the same time each day. If a dose is missed, give it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and give the next dose at the usual time.

Overdose / acute toxicity

Acute overdose may cause vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and sedation. If you think your pet has had an overdose, seek veterinarian care immediately.

Side effects

Very little information is available regarding side effects as few studies have been performed at this time. Side effects should be uncommon but may include: *Sedation *Weight gain *Changes in fertility that may vary depending on species treated *If an implant is placed, abscess may occur at the implant site *It is possible that side effects associated with human studies/reports of melatonin use may also affect animals.

Contraindications

*Previous sensitivity *Sexually immature animals *Pregnant animals *Liver disease *Kidney disease

Drug interactions

Consult your veterinarian before using melatonin with any other medications, even vitamins and supplements. Benzodiazepines and succinylcholine may interact with melatonin.

Precaution

Avoid use in pregnant or sexually immature animals. Use with caution in animals with existing liver and/or kidney disease.

Laboratory considerations

May reduce cortisol and estradiol levels

Sources

Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook

Disclaimer
The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.

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