CIRCADIAN-RHYTHMS, JET-LAG, AND CHRONOBIOTICS - AN OVERVIEW

This overview considers the origins of jet lag in terms of altered cir cadian rhythmicity. The properties required of a chronobiotic-an agent to cause phase adjustment of the body clock-are discussed, and an acc ount is given of the major candidates at the present time: light, mela tonin, activity, and benzodiazepines. It is concluded that current kno wledge indicates that a combination of factors is likely to be most ef fective.