A review of ramelteon in the treatment of sleep disorders

Review

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Author: David N Neubauer

Published Date March 2008 Volume 2008:4(1) Pages 69 - 79

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/NDT.S483

David N Neubauer

Department of Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

Abstract: Ramelteon is a selective melatonin receptor (MT₁ and MT₂) agonist that has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulty with sleep onset. It is the only approved sleep-promoting medication that does not have a direct sedating effect, but rather enhances sleep through effects on sleep regulatory mechanisms within the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Ramelteon has been shown to have no abuse liability and therefore is not scheduled by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency as a controlled substance. It is available as an 8 mg tablet, which should be taken approximately 30 minutes prior to bedtime. The FDA approval contains no limitation on how long the medication may be prescribed.

Keywords: circadian rhythm, insomnia, melatonin receptors, ramelteon, sleep-wake cycle

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