Pneumococcal and influenza vaccinations are appropriate. Supplemental oxygen is available on US airlines, but must be ordered in advance. Travelers are not permitted to use their own oxygen tanks in flight. In general, supplemental oxygen should be considered if the arterial PaO2 is likely to be 50 mm or less during flight. For some travelers, jet lag can be a terrible occurrence that may intrude into a major part of a short travel or vacation.
Studies supports the use of melatonin for short-term treatment of jet lag.
Caution must be exercised since melatonin is a recombinant human hormone, and the safety of long-term use has not been evaluated. It should not be taken for more than one month at a time and not more than 0.5 mg per day, as long-term studies are not yet available. Sleepiness, impaired libido, mild depression at higher doses. Nausea, headache, nightmares. Possible decreased alertness and reproductive effects.