Jet lag, the cost paid for a great trip across time zones (or the penalty paid by night-shift workers who suffer a similar fate), can take days to recover from and up until now, there have been few studies that focus on effective treatment to counter these disturbances in sleep cycles. 

In an on-line version of the journal Lancet, the results of 2 small, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies were released that showed promise for a  new medication called tasimelteon, a melatonin stimulator.

Melatonin is a neurotransmitter produced in the brain that helps regulate sleep. Blood levels fluctuate over 24 hours with a surge in melatonin occurring at night. Melatonin supplements are sold over-the-counter but because they are considered a supplement, there is little regulation of ingredients, potentcy or manufacturing process.

In these two trials, researchers looked at the time it took to fall asleep, the participants ability to stay asleep and the quality of sleep (REM) and involved 45 people in the first phase of the drug trial and 412 in the 3rd phase. In both trials, the drug improved sleep as measured by polysomnography and the participants own subjective reporting.

The good news about the drug is its non-addicting qualities and minimal side effect profile. It is similar in action to Rozerem another melatonin enhancer that is currently available by prescription.

You can read more about this clinical trial at the following link.