The amplitude of endogenous melatonin production is not affected by melatonin treatment in humans

A physiological dose of melatonin (0.5 mg) or placebo was given at bedtime to night shift workers (n=21) for seven days, and endogenous melatonin profiles were measured on the eighth day. The amplitude of endogenous melatonin secretion was unchanged by treatment. Also, a melatonin treatment trial using a 50 mg daily bedtime dose for 37 days to a blind subject resulted in no change in the endogenous melatonin profile. We conclude that circulating melatonin can shift the phase, but does not alter the amplitude, of pineal melatonin secretion.