The widely used melatonin medication, Vigisom is now available over the counter at pharmacies without prescription.
Michelle Kapinga, general manager of Vigisom melatonin supplier, Aspen New Zealand, says the medication improves sleep quality and morning alertness for people over 55 years of age who suffer from short term insomnia and previously required a prescription from a pharmacist or doctor.
“Making Vigisom melatonin available to New Zealanders from pharmacies without a prescription is the result of new government legislation introduced by Associate Health Minister, David Seymour, to make regularly used, tried and trusted medications more accessible. That brings New Zealand into line with similar countries around the world,” she says.
Ms Kapinga adds that the active substance in Vigisom is melatonin, which belongs to a group of naturally occurring hormones produced in the body.
Melatonin works by controlling the circadian rhythms and increasing sleep tendency. It is not addictive.
Vigisom has been available in this country since 2012 (previously named Circadin) as a medicine registered by Medsafe.
This means it meets all the requirements of efficacy, safety and quality as a registered medicine.
“Unlike immediate release melatonin medications, Vigisom allows for melatonin to be released gradually over 8 to 10 hours, mimicking the body’s natural melatonin action and providing coverage throughout the night,” Ms Kapinga says.
“Vigisom melatonin is well tolerated and does not impair daytime functioning.”
NOTE: Vigisom (melatonin) Prolonged Release Tablets 2mg is a pharmacy medicine for the short-term treatment of insomnia in adults aged 55 years or over. Always read the label and use as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. Trademarks are owned by or licensed to the Aspen Group of companies.
© 2025 Aspen Group of companies or its licensor. All rights reserved. Aspen NZ, c/o Pharmacy Retailing (NZ) Ltd, Auckland. TAPS Approval No BG5544