Melatonin Profile-Doctor's Data Kit (formerly Labrix):
Note: This is a home collection test kit that will be mailed to you.
Fasting Required: No
Lab: Doctor's Data
Specimen: 3 Saliva Samples
Results: Average processing time 3-5 business days
Note: Result turnaround times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
Description: Many people are familiar with melatonin because of its influence on sleep. Healthy melatonin curves help positively influence the initiation and maintenance of quality sleep cycles, and disruptions in melatonin curves, commonly referred to as phase shifts, may present clinically as disordered sleep patterns.
Melatonin and cortisol share an inverse relationship – when melatonin levels are low, cortisol levels should be high and vice versa. However, just as it is possible to see disruptions in cortisol curves, disruptions in melatonin curves may be noted and are influenced by several factors. For instance, declines in melatonin levels are seen with age, blue light exposure (as commonly emitted by TV and computer screens), and some medications including benzodiazepines and antihypertensives (beta blockers). Some antidepressants and anti-psychotics may shift melatonin curves, as can strenuous exercise. Melatonin supplementation can be particularly useful for people who engage in shift work or are jet lagged.
Fasting Required: No
Lab: Doctor's Data
Specimen: 3 Saliva Samples
Results: Average processing time 3-5 business days
Note: Result turnaround times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
Description: Many people are familiar with melatonin because of its influence on sleep. Healthy melatonin curves help positively influence the initiation and maintenance of quality sleep cycles, and disruptions in melatonin curves, commonly referred to as phase shifts, may present clinically as disordered sleep patterns.
Melatonin and cortisol share an inverse relationship – when melatonin levels are low, cortisol levels should be high and vice versa. However, just as it is possible to see disruptions in cortisol curves, disruptions in melatonin curves may be noted and are influenced by several factors. For instance, declines in melatonin levels are seen with age, blue light exposure (as commonly emitted by TV and computer screens), and some medications including benzodiazepines and antihypertensives (beta blockers). Some antidepressants and anti-psychotics may shift melatonin curves, as can strenuous exercise. Melatonin supplementation can be particularly useful for people who engage in shift work or are jet lagged.