NCIt definition : A synthetic melatonin analogue with hypnotic and circadian rhythm-modulating activities.
Ramelteon binds to and activates melatonin receptors 1 and 2 in the suprachiasmatic
nucleus (SCN) of the brain, thereby promoting the onset of sleep. Unlike the nonbenzodiazepine
sedative hypnotics zolpidem and zaleplon, this agent does not activate GABA receptors
and, so, produces no GABA receptor-mediated anxiolytic, myorelaxant, and amnesic effects.;