Effects of melatonin and estradiol on chronic pain during postmenopause

Autores

  • Sônia Fátima da Silva Moreira Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul
  • Andressa de Souza
  • Iraci Lucena da Silva Torres Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul

Palavras-chave:

Chronic pain, melatonin, estradiol, menopause

Resumo

Chronic pain is a major public health problem that affects approximately 40% of the adult population worldwide. Several epidemiological studies have shown a higher prevalence of chronic pain in women, with variation within the menstrual cycle and worsening after menopause. Clinical and experimental studies have shown differences in pain perception between genders, but the underlying mechanisms of this inequality are complex and far from being understood. Estrogens play an important role in pain modulation and seem to account, at least in part, for these differences. Melatonin is a neurohormone synthesized mainly by the pineal gland that regulates circadian rhythms and has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, sedative, antidepressant, anxiolytic, and analgesic effects. After menopause, melatonin levels decrease, which may cause the sleep disorders that usually affect women during this period of life. Some studies have demonstrated an interaction between melatonin and estrogens in terms of antioxidant effects. The present study seeks to provide a review on melatonin, estradiol, and chronic pain in women.

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Biografia do Autor

Iraci Lucena da Silva Torres, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul

DEPARTAMENTO DE FARMACOLOGIA

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Publicado

2014-10-20

Como Citar

1.
Moreira SF da S, de Souza A, Torres IL da S. Effects of melatonin and estradiol on chronic pain during postmenopause. Clin Biomed Res [Internet]. 20º de outubro de 2014 [citado 16º de abril de 2024];34(3). Disponível em: https://seer.ufrgs.br/index.php/hcpa/article/view/47921

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