OFFICIAL NAMES: Melatonin, 5-methoxy-N-acetyltrypt-amine

STREET NAMES: Melliquid, mellow tonin, somniset

DRUG CLASSIFICATIONS: Not scheduled

Overview

Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by many animals. In humans, it is produced in several parts of the body, including the pineal gland, which is a small organ located at the base of the brain. Historically, the pineal gland was thought to have some sort of metaphysical function. It was often called the "third eye" and was said to be "the seat of the soul" by Descartes. It is now known to be involved in the neuroendocrine system, which involves the interaction of the nervous and endocrine systems (organs that produce hormones). This interaction results in the regulation of essential body functions. The neuroendocrine system is responsible for the fight or flight response, as well as many other processes that keep people alive and healthy. Melatonin is thought...