Melatonin supplementation improves rheumatological disease activity: A systematic review

de et al., 2023 | Clin Nutr ESPEN | Systematic Review

Citation

de Carvalho Jozélio Freire, Skare Thelma L. Melatonin supplementation improves rheumatological disease activity: A systematic review. Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2023-Jun;55:414-419. doi:10.1016/j.clnesp.2023.04.011

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Melatonin is a pineal hormone with a complex role. It is linked to sleep, inflammatory, oxidative, and immunological processes. AIM: To review the use of melatonin supplementation in rheumatological diseases. METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Scielo databases was performed, looking for articles on Melatonin and rheumatic diseases published between 1966 and August 2022. RESULTS: Thirteen articles were identified: in fibromyalgia (n = 5 articles), rheumatoid arthritis (n = 2), systemic sclerosis (n = 1), systemic lupus erythematosus (n = 1) and osteoporosis/osteopenia (n = 3) and osteoarthritis (n = 1). There were positive results of melatonin administration in fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis/osteopenia but not in rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. The drug was well tolerated with mild side effects. CONCLUSION: This review shows the efficacy of Melatonin in some rheumatic diseases. However, new studies are needed to elucidate the real role of this treatment in rheumatology.

Key Findings

Thirteen articles were identified: in fibromyalgia (n = 5 articles), rheumatoid arthritis (n = 2), systemic sclerosis (n = 1), systemic lupus erythematosus (n = 1) and osteoporosis/osteopenia (n = 3) and osteoarthritis (n = 1). There were positive results of melatonin administration in fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis/osteopenia but not in rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. The drug was well tolerated with mild side effects.

Outcomes Measured

  • inflammatory markers

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 5
Age Range See abstract
Condition sleep

MeSH Terms

  • Humans
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Melatonin
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid
  • Rheumatic Diseases
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Osteoporosis
  • Dietary Supplements

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Systematic Review, Journal Article
  • Vertical: melatonin

Provenance


Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09