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Evidence Synopsis
Title:
Benefits and Harms of Melatonin and Hypnotics in Preventing Jet Lag in Long-Haul Air Travelers
Date completed:
May 7, 2015
Authors:
Steven Lascher, DVM, PhD, MPH and David R. Goldmann, MD
Clinical question:
Are melatonin and/or hypnotics effective preventive interventions for jet lag in long-haul travelers?
Author recommendations:
For long-distance air travelers who may benefit from jet lag mitigation, clinicians may prescribe melatonin or a hypnotic at specific times during the flight.
For melatonin, travelers can take 5 mg orally on the flight, between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., at the same time before going to bed after arrival, and for a few days thereafter. Melatonin side effects are uncommon and generally mild. They may include drowsiness, headache, dizziness, or nausea.
Evidence and recommendations:
| Quality of Evidence a | Strength of Recommendations b | Conclusion |
|---|---|---|
| Moderate | Weak | Evidence favors melatonin over placebo in travelers rapidly crossing multiple time zones |
a Quality of evidence scale (GRADE): high, moderate, low, and very low.
b Strength of recommendations scale (GRADE): strong, weak, or no recommendation. For more information on the GRADE rating system, see http://www.gradeworkinggroup.org/index.htm .
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