Pills commonly used to help people get a good night’s sleep are now the focus of a new trial to boost memory and thinking.
High-dose formulations of melatonin are being tested to see whether their anti-oxidant properties can improve cognitive function.
The use of melatonin is aimed at reducing oxidative stress in the brain, with the hope of preventing or slowing the onset of dementia.
“We know that oxidative stress can be an environment where more damage can happen,” said lead researcher Dr Camilla Hoyos at the Woolcock Institute and University of Sydney’s Brain and Mind Centre.
“It can lead to all different conditions, including neurodegenerative conditions,” she said.
If the study is successful, testing will be rolled out to a larger group of older Australians.
The melatonin in the study is different to what’s available in pharmacies as they are faster acting and contain higher doses of the sleep hormone.
“This natural hormone has also been reported to reduce hypertension, and improve mood and sleep, so we’re investigating these as well,” said Dr Hoyos.
