How does melatonin work?
Melatonin helps regulate your body clock by signalling to your brain that it’s time to sleep. It is often used for sleep disturbances caused by jet lag, shift work, or other factors that disrupt natural sleep patterns.
What is melatonin used to treat?
Melatonin is commonly prescribed for:
Who can take melatonin?
Melatonin is generally safe for adults and some children when prescribed by a doctor. It is usually used for short-term sleep support.
Who might not be able to take melatonin?
Melatonin may not be suitable if you:
- Have liver or kidney disease
- Have an autoimmune condition
- Are taking medications that affect sleep or the immune system
Can I take melatonin if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Melatonin is not usually recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Speak to your doctor before using it.
What if I miss a dose?
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as possible before bedtime. If it is already morning, skip the missed dose. Do not take extra doses to make up for a missed one.
How effective is melatonin?
Melatonin is effective for short-term sleep issues, particularly for regulating disrupted sleep patterns due to jet lag or shift work.
What should I do if I take too much?
Taking too much melatonin may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or headaches. If you experience severe symptoms, seek medical advice.
What dose of melatonin is usually taken?
The usual doses are:
- Adults with insomnia: 2mg to 10mg before bedtime
- Jet lag: 0.5mg to 5mg before bedtime for a few days
- Children (under specialist care): Individual doses as advised by a doctor
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What are the side effects of melatonin?
Common side effects include:
How should I take melatonin?
Melatonin is taken as a tablet or liquid, usually 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime.
When should melatonin be taken?
Melatonin should be taken at bedtime, ideally in a dark and quiet environment to support natural sleep.
What are the brand names for melatonin?
Melatonin is available under brand names such as Circadin in the UK.
Final thoughts
Melatonin can be a helpful sleep aid for short-term use. However, it should be taken as prescribed and not relied upon for long-term sleep problems. Speak to a doctor if you have ongoing sleep issues.
