Distribution, function and physiological role of melatonin in the lower gut

Table 2 Clinical trials using melatonin in patients with irritable bowel syndrome

Authors	n	Study design	Dose	Conclusion
Lu et al[110]	17	Randomized, crossover placebo-controlled (8 wk)1	3 mg/od	CTT did not change significantly in IBS patients with melatonin treatment
Saha et al[109]	18	Randomized, placebo-controlled (8 wk)1	3 mg/od	Significant symptomatic benefit on bowel symptoms, extracolonic symptoms, and quality of life
Lu et al[108]	17	Randomized, crossover placebo-controlled (8 wk)1	3 mg/od	Significant symptomatic benefit on IBS scores, anxiety, well-being, and depression scores
Song et al[107]	40	Randomized, placebo-controlled (2 wk)1	3 mg/od	Significantly attenuated abdominal pain and reduced rectal pain

¹Treatment duration; od: Once daily; CTT: Colonic transit time; IBS: Irritable bowel syndrome.