[Melatonin - known problems and perspectives of clinical usage].

The article discusses well-known and ongoing studies of mechanisms of action of melatonin. The main clinical effects of melatonin are discussed. The emphasis on the chronobiological effect of melatonin, its adaptogenic and anti-carcinogenic properties has been done in the article. The most frequent manifestations of epiphyseal melatonin deficiency are various functional disorders in the form of insomnia, anxiety or depressive disorders. Recommendations on the effective use of melatonin in its deficiency due to pathology are given.