Meta Information

ID:ramelteon

Name:Ramelteon

Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

• Rozerem

Active Compound

ramelteon

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Delivery

Route:

oral

Scope:

• systemic

Regulatory Status

• us:rx_drug
• eu:rx_drug

Indication

Focus:

symptom_management

Description:

Treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulty with sleep onset.

Typical Protocol

• The standard clinical dose is 8 mg taken within 30 minutes of bedtime.
• It should not be taken with or immediately after a high-fat meal.

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:

30

High Cost:

250

Cost Type:

monthly

Description:

Cost for a 30-day supply; generic is often covered by insurance.

Summary

Ramelteon is a selective melatonin receptor agonist that targets the MT1 and MT2 receptors in the brain's suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). By mimicking melatonin's natural effects, it helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle, primarily aiding in sleep onset. While restoring a healthy circadian rhythm is a key healthspan concept, Ramelteon's direct evidence is limited to treating the symptom of insomnia, not extending healthy lifespan.

Purpose

A melatonin agonist used to treat insomnia by regulating sleep-wake cycles.

Card Summary

A prescription sleep aid that mimics melatonin to help with falling asleep, primarily for managing insomnia.

Drug Class

melatonin_receptor_agonist

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:

2.5

Justification:

Addresses poor sleep, a healthspan risk, but lacks direct pro-longevity evidence.

Evidence

Grade:

A

Score:

9

Justification:

Multiple large-scale human RCTs confirm efficacy for sleep-onset insomnia.

Safety

Score:

4.5

Justification:

Prescription drug with manageable side effects; lower abuse potential than other hypnotics.

Flags

• May cause next-day drowsiness, dizziness, or fatigue.
• Avoid use with alcohol or other CNS depressants.
• Use with caution in patients with severe liver impairment.
• Rarely, may cause complex sleep behaviors like sleep-driving.
• Can increase prolactin levels, potentially affecting hormones.

Verdict

A targeted, non-addictive option for sleep-onset insomnia, not a general healthspan agent.

Created

2026-05-06T18:02:54.218461Z

Ai Model

Gemini 2.5 Pro (High)