What is the Difference Between Circadin and Melatonin?

Circadin and melatonin are both related to the hormone melatonin, which regulates human sleep patterns. However, there are some differences between the two:

1. Formulation: Circadin is a prolonged-release tablet that contains melatonin as its active ingredient. It is designed to release melatonin gradually over 8 to 10 hours, mimicking the body's natural night-time peak. Over-the-counter (OTC) melatonin supplements are usually formulated as immediate-release tablets, which stay in the body for shorter durations.
2. Regulation: Circadin is a pharmaceutical-grade melatonin product that has been carefully assessed for efficacy and consistency, and has been approved for use in certain countries. OTC melatonin supplements do not require approval and are not evaluated by regulatory agencies, which may lead to varying melatonin content and quality.
3. Indication: Circadin is used for the short-term treatment of primary insomnia (poor quality of sleep) in older individuals. It helps increase blood levels of melatonin, which may be lower in older people, leading to the development of insomnia. Melatonin, on the other hand, is a naturally synthesized hormone that regulates sleep in response to light intensity.

In summary, Circadin is a prolonged-release tablet that contains melatonin and is used to treat primary insomnia in older individuals, while melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that regulates sleep patterns. Circadin is a pharmaceutical-grade product approved for use in certain countries, whereas OTC melatonin supplements may vary in quality and content.

Comparative Table: Circadin vs Melatonin

The main difference between Circadin and Melatonin is that Circadin is an artificially synthesized drug used to treat insomnia, while Melatonin is a naturally synthesized hormone that regulates human sleep patterns. Here is a comparison table of their differences and similarities:

Both Circadin and Melatonin are sleep inducers and regulate the biological clock of humans. Circadin is utilized to treat sleep disorders, primarily insomnia, by causing a prolonged release of melatonin that mimics the natural phenomenon of melatonin. Melatonin is secreted by the pineal gland of the brain and induces sleep based on light intensity. In cases where melatonin production is low, Circadin is administered as a therapeutic drug to treat sleep disorders like insomnia.