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Melatonin is a hormone produced primarily by the pineal gland in response to darkness. It helps regulate circadian rhythms and the timing of sleep. In the United States, melatonin is commonly sold as a dietary supplement rather than an FDA-approved medication for insomnia. Products include tablets, capsules, liquids, and gummies.
read more about melatonin ...Melatonin acts on melatonin receptors, including MT1 and MT2, involved in circadian rhythm regulation. Its natural production increases during darkness and decreases with light exposure. Melatonin signals the body's biological clock and helps regulate sleep timing rather than acting like a conventional sedative.
Melatonin supplements are used by some adults experiencing jet lag or difficulty with sleep timing. Research also examines melatonin for delayed sleep-wake phase disorder and selected pediatric sleep disorders. Evidence does not establish melatonin as a recommended treatment for chronic insomnia in adults. Children and people with underlying medical conditions require professional guidance before taking supplements.
Melatonin supplements have no single FDA-approved dose for insomnia or sleep timing disorders. Products contain different amounts and have varying administration directions. The appropriate amount and timing depend on the intended use, individual circumstances, and product formulation. Users follow the product label and consult a healthcare professional before giving melatonin to children or combining it with prescription medicines.
Reported adverse effects include daytime sleepiness, dizziness, headache, and nausea. Melatonin can interact with certain medicines, including anticoagulants and other medicines that cause sedation. Long-term safety data remain limited, particularly in children. Supplement testing has also identified differences between labeled and measured melatonin content, creating additional concerns about accidental excessive exposure.
Melatonin helps regulate circadian rhythms and signals the timing of sleep and wakefulness.
No. Melatonin is commonly regulated as a dietary supplement in the United States, not as an FDA-approved insomnia medicine.
No. Supplement amounts and timing differ by product and intended use, and there is no universal FDA-approved dosing regimen.
Yes. Sleepiness, dizziness, headache, and nausea are among the reported adverse effects.
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