What is altonil 10 tablet used for?

This medicine contains Melatonin 10 mg, a hormone that helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle. It is used for jet lag, shift work sleep disorder, and delayed sleep phase syndrome. Take it 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Avoid alcohol and driving after taking it.

Generic Name: Melatonin
Manufacturer: Alteus Biogenics Pvt Ltd
Form: Allopathy
Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 altonil 10 tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मेलाटोनिन 10 मिलीग्राम की एक टैबलेट है, जिसका उपयोग नींद-जागने की चक्र को नियंत्रित करने के लिए किया जाता है। यह जेट लैग, शिफ्ट वर्क स्लीप डिसऑर्डर और डिलेड स्लीप फेज सिंड्रोम जैसी समस्याओं में मदद करती है। यह दवा सोने से 30 से 60 मिनट पहले लेनी चाहिए। इसका सेवन डॉक्टर की सलाह के अनुसार ही करें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में दिन में नींद आना, सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना, जी मिचलाना और सुबह उठने पर सुस्ती महसूस होना शामिल है। कुछ लोगों को असामान्य सपने या बुरे सपने आ सकते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन अगर आपको एलर्जी, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, या मानसिक भ्रम महसूस हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। इसका सेवन करने के बाद 4 से 5 घंटे तक वाहन न चलाएं और मशीनरी का संचालन न करें। शराब का सेवन न करें क्योंकि इससे नींद और बढ़ सकती है। अगर आप गर्भवती हैं, स्तनपान करा रही हैं, या आपको मिर्गी, ऑटोइम्यून रोग, या लीवर/किडनी की समस्या है, तो डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। बच्चों को यह दवा बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के न दें।

💊 altonil 10 tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Jet lag","description":"Helps reduce the time needed to adjust to a new time zone and improves sleep quality after travel.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Shift work sleep disorder","description":"May improve daytime sleep quality and duration in people who work night shifts.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Delayed sleep phase syndrome","description":"Helps advance sleep onset time in people whose natural sleep cycle is delayed.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Insomnia","description":"May reduce the time it takes to fall asleep, though effects are modest and short-term.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Tension-type headache prophylaxis","description":"Sometimes used off-label to reduce headache frequency, but evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)","description":"Melatonin may help reduce acid reflux symptoms by affecting the lower esophageal sphincter, but this is not a standard use.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Anxiety before surgery","description":"Sometimes used to reduce preoperative anxiety as an alternative to benzodiazepines.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Circadian rhythm sleep disorders

Also treats: Jet lag, Shift work sleep disorder, Delayed sleep phase syndrome, Insomnia

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)	Melatonin
Brand Name	Altonil
Manufacturer	Alteus Biogenics Pvt Ltd
Packaging / Form	Varies by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic Class	OTHERS
Action Class	Melatonin agonist
Route of Administration	Oral
Storage	Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life	24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO Guideline	Not established from the available information.
ICMR Guideline	Not established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1

Take this medicine 30 to 60 minutes before your planned bedtime for best results.

2

Avoid taking it with a high-fat meal as it can delay the onset of sleep.

3

Do not drive or operate heavy machinery for at least 4 to 5 hours after taking this medicine.

4

Keep a consistent sleep schedule and practice good sleep hygiene to enhance the effect.

5

Do not use this medicine for more than 2 to 4 weeks without consulting your doctor.

6

Inform your doctor if you are taking blood thinners, antidepressants, or other sleep medicines.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅

Jet lag

This medicine is commonly used for jet lag.

Likely Use

✅

Shift work sleep disorder

This medicine can help adjust sleep timing for shift workers.

Likely Use

✅

Insomnia

This medicine may help with sleep onset, but it is not a primary treatment for chronic insomnia.

Likely Use

❌

Sleep apnea

This medicine is not a treatment for sleep apnea.

Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionMelatonin is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. However, it undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism, which reduces its bioavailability. The absorption can be affected by food, with a high-fat meal potentially delaying absorption.

DistributionMelatonin is widely distributed throughout the body and can cross the blood-brain barrier and the placenta. It is also found in saliva and breast milk. The volume of distribution is not well established.

Protein BindingMelatonin is approximately 60% bound to plasma proteins, primarily albumin.

MetabolismMelatonin is primarily metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes, specifically CYP1A2 and to a lesser extent CYP2C19. The main metabolite is 6-hydroxymelatonin, which is then conjugated with sulfate or glucuronic acid.

Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of melatonin is short, typically ranging from 20 to 50 minutes. However, the immediate-release formulation may have a slightly longer apparent half-life due to absorption kinetics.

ExcretionMelatonin and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine. About 80% of the administered dose is excreted as 6-sulfatoxymelatonin in the urine.

BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of melatonin is low and variable, estimated to be around 15% due to extensive first-pass metabolism. It can range from 1% to 37% depending on individual factors.

Onset of ActionThe onset of action for sleep promotion is typically within 30 to 60 minutes after oral administration.

Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are usually reached within 1 to 2 hours after oral administration of an immediate-release tablet.

Duration of ActionThe effects on sleep typically last for 4 to 6 hours, but this can vary depending on the individual and the dose.

How It Works

Melatonin is a hormone that binds to and activates melatonin receptors MT1 and MT2 in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus, which is the master clock of the body. Activation of MT1 receptors helps reduce neuronal firing and promotes sleep onset, while MT2 receptors are involved in phase-shifting the circadian rhythm. This medicine also has antioxidant properties and may influence other physiological processes, but its primary role is to regulate the sleep-wake cycle.

Mechanism Steps

1

Binding to melatonin receptors: This medicine binds to MT1 and MT2 receptors in the brain's suprachiasmatic nucleus.

2

Inhibition of neuronal firing: Activation of MT1 receptors reduces the firing rate of neurons that promote wakefulness.

3

Phase shifting of circadian rhythm: Activation of MT2 receptors helps reset the timing of the internal body clock.

4

Promotion of sleep onset: The combined effect signals the body that it is time to sleep, reducing sleep latency.

💡 How to Take altonil 10 tablet

Strength: Melatonin 10 mg immediate-release oral tablet

1Take this medicine orally with a glass of water.

2Take it 30 to 60 minutes before you plan to sleep.

3Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.

4Take it at the same time each night to establish a routine.

5Avoid taking it with a high-fat meal as it may delay absorption.

Dosage Information

Adult Dosage	The usual adult dose of this medicine is 10 mg taken orally once daily, 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. However, the dose may vary depending on the indication. For jet lag, it is often taken at the target bedtime at the destination for 2 to 5 days. For shift work sleep disorder, it may be taken before daytime sleep. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.
Pediatric Dosage	Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly Dosage	Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of melatonin. A lower starting dose may be appropriate. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal and hepatic function and other medications.
Renal Impairment	In patients with severe renal impairment, melatonin clearance may be reduced. Use with caution and consider dose reduction under medical supervision.
Hepatic Impairment	In patients with hepatic impairment, melatonin metabolism may be reduced. Use with caution and consider dose reduction under medical supervision.
Maximum Daily Dose	The maximum recommended daily dose is 10 mg, but higher doses should only be used under medical supervision.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food

Take on an empty stomach or with a light snack

High-fat meals can delay absorption.

Caffeine

Avoid close to bedtime

Caffeine can counteract the sleep-promoting effects.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed

→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.

💡 Continue with the regular schedule.

📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed

→ Skip the missed dose.

💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of altonil 10 tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Daytime drowsiness (Common (5-10%))

Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. If drowsiness persists, consult your doctor.

Headache (Common (5-10%))

Usually resolves on its own. If it persists or is severe, consult your doctor.

Dizziness (Common (5-10%))

Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions. Avoid driving if dizzy.

Nausea (Common (5-10%))

Take with a small snack if it bothers you. If nausea is severe, consult your doctor.

Vivid dreams or nightmares (Common (5-10%))

This usually settles with continued use. If disturbing, talk to your doctor about dose adjustment.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) (Rare (<0.1%))

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.

Severe confusion or hallucinations (Rare (<0.1%))

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately.

Mood changes or depression (Rare (<0.1%))

Consult your doctor if you notice significant changes in mood or behavior.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Seizures

Seek emergency medical help if seizures occur.

Liver enzyme elevation

Report any yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain to your doctor.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug	Severity	Effect
Fluvoxamine	Major
Warfarin	Major
Benzodiazepines	Major
Alcohol	Major
Caffeine	Moderate
Propranolol	Moderate
Oral contraceptives	Moderate
Ibuprofen	Minor
Fluoxetine	Minor
Nifedipine	Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

Fluvoxamine
Warfarin
CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids, alcohol)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

Caffeine
Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol)
Oral contraceptives

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of melatonin, leading to excessive drowsiness, impaired coordination, and worsened sleep quality. It can also disrupt the sleep-wake cycle that melatonin is trying to regulate.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity or allergy to melatonin or any component of the formulation","Autoimmune diseases (melatonin may stimulate the immune system)","Severe liver or kidney impairment","Children under 18 years of age unless prescribed by a doctor"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Do not drive or operate heavy machinery for at least 4-5 hours after taking this medicine.","Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.","Do not use this medicine for longer than prescribed without medical advice.","Inform your doctor if you have a history of seizures, autoimmune disease, or liver or kidney problems.","This medicine may cause drowsiness; avoid activities requiring alertness until you know how it affects you.","Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting your doctor."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Melatonin is excreted in breast milk. It is not known whether this medicine is safe for use during breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of melatonin may cause excessive drowsiness, headache, dizziness, nausea, and disorientation. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember if it is still close to your scheduled time. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor or as per the label. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for at least 4 to 5 hours after taking this medicine, as it can cause drowsiness. Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase sedation and impair your ability to sleep properly. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. If you have a history of seizures, autoimmune disease, or liver or kidney problems, use this medicine only under medical supervision. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Do not use it for longer than prescribed without consulting your doctor.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the sedative effects of this medicine. A lower starting dose may be appropriate, and they should be monitored for drowsiness and falls.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Melatonin's effects on fertility and early pregnancy are not well established.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist if you are taking this medicine before surgery, as it may interact with anesthetic agents and increase sedation.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it may cause drowsiness and interact with sedatives used during dental procedures.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃

Maintain a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day.

🥗

Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or taking a warm bath.

😴

Avoid screens and bright lights for at least an hour before bedtime.

💧

Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.

🧘

Avoid caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime.

🌞

Get regular exercise during the day, but not too close to bedtime.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine can cause drowsiness. Avoid exercising immediately after taking it, as it may increase the risk of falls or injuries. Exercise earlier in the day to promote better sleep at night.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include foods rich in tryptophan, such as turkey, milk, and bananas, which may support sleep.

Avoid heavy, spicy meals close to bedtime.

Stay hydrated throughout the day, but limit fluids close to bedtime.

Limit caffeine and alcohol intake, especially in the evening.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause daytime drowsiness, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is important to avoid these activities for at least 4 to 5 hours after taking it. If you work night shifts, take it before your daytime sleep to help adjust your schedule.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor if you experience persistent side effects, if your sleep problems worsen, or if you need to use it for more than a few weeks. Do not stop abruptly if you have been taking it for a long time without medical advice.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine beyond a few months has not been extensively studied. Some people may develop tolerance or experience persistent drowsiness. It is advisable to use it for the shortest duration necessary and under medical supervision. Regular review with your doctor is recommended if you need it for more than 4 weeks.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)

A structured program to improve sleep habits and thoughts.

Evidence: Well-established

Light therapy

Timed exposure to bright light to reset the circadian rhythm.

Evidence: Moderate

Relaxation techniques

Techniques such as meditation and deep breathing to reduce sleep anxiety.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. You can receive vaccinations while taking this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. For jet lag, take it at the target bedtime at your destination. Store it at room temperature and protect it from light and moisture. Check customs regulations for carrying melatonin, as it may be regulated in some countries.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old frequent flyer who often travels across time zones

He started taking this medicine at the target bedtime after landing to help reset his sleep cycle. He found that it reduced his jet lag symptoms significantly and helped him adjust within 2 days instead of a week. He made sure to take it only for a few days and avoided alcohol.

💡 Lesson: Taking melatonin at the right time can help speed up adjustment to new time zones.

👤 A 50-year-old night shift nurse who struggled with daytime sleep

She was prescribed this medicine to take before her daytime sleep. She noticed improved sleep duration and felt less groggy during her shift. She also blacked out her bedroom and avoided caffeine before sleep.

💡 Lesson: Combining melatonin with good sleep hygiene can improve sleep quality for shift workers.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine typically starts working within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it.

Q: Can I take it every night?

A: It is generally recommended for short-term use. Consult your doctor if you need it for more than a few weeks.

Q: Is it safe to take with other sleep medicines?

A: It can increase sedation when combined with other sleep medicines. Consult your doctor before combining.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember if it is still close to bedtime. Otherwise, skip it and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

Can I take this medicine long-term?
Will it affect my kidney function?
Can I drive after taking this medicine?
Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for altonil 10 tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

Myth: Melatonin is a strong sleeping pill.
Fact: Melatonin is not a sedative; it helps regulate sleep timing and is not effective for all types of insomnia.
Myth: Melatonin is completely safe and has no side effects.
Fact: Melatonin can cause drowsiness, headache, and other side effects, and it can interact with other medicines.
Myth: You can take melatonin every night forever.
Fact: Long-term use should be discussed with a doctor, as safety data beyond a few months are limited.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

Melatonin 10 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

Altonil 10 tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Altonil 10 tablet","active_ingredient":"Melatonin 10 mg","release_type":"Immediate release","primary_use":"Circadian rhythm sleep disorders"},{"medicine":"Melatonin 5 mg tablet","active_ingredient":"Melatonin 5 mg","release_type":"Immediate release","primary_use":"Circadian rhythm sleep disorders"},{"medicine":"Ramelteon","active_ingredient":"Ramelteon","release_type":"Immediate release","primary_use":"Insomnia"}]

Altonil 10 Tablet (Melatonin 10 mg): Complete Medicine Guide

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

What is altonil 10 tablet used for?

🇮🇳 altonil 10 tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

💊 altonil 10 tablet Uses & Benefits

📋 Drug Information

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

How It Works

Mechanism Steps

💡 How to Take altonil 10 tablet

Dosage Information

Dosage Timeline

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

⚠️ Side Effects of altonil 10 tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

🚨 Serious Side Effects

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

🔬 Drug Interactions

🚨 Major Interactions

⚡ Moderate Interactions

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

🤱 Lactation Safety

💊 Overdose Management

⏰ Missed Dose

Additional Safety Advice

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

🦷 Dental Procedures

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

🥗 Diet Recommendations

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

❌ DON'T

✅ DO

❌ DON'T

✅ DO

❌ DON'T

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

🔄 Substitutes for altonil 10 tablet

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

Brand Alternatives

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

😊 Was this information helpful?

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