Is using melatonin to help fall asleep safe?

pa5tabear

My mom got some and I'm wondering if it's safe to use. Is it actually effective? And are there any other issues associated with it?

Dotini

I've used melatonin for quite a few years, 500 mcg tablets, one or at most two, to promote sleep. I find it effective, and without problems.

I'm unaware of any safety issues associated with its use, although you will have slightly more, shall we say, "lurid" dreams. :)

Respectfully submitted,
Steve

Evo

Please be careful when self medicating. Always see your doctor before you decide to use over the counter medications.

If you're considering taking melatonin supplements, check with your doctor first — especially if you have any health conditions. The correct dose depends on the intended use. For example, circadian rhythm sleep disorders are often treated with 0.5 milligrams of melatonin a day, while doses of 3 to 5 milligrams a day might be used to treat jet lag or reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. In addition, remember that melatonin is generally recommended only for short-term use — up to two months.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mel...ffects/AN01717

Monique

The timing that melatonin is taken is also of importance, it can deregulate sleep rhythm when taken at the wrong hour.

micesacle

Melatonin has very few side-effects in the short-term, as long as you don't overdose. The main problems with overdosing is hypothermia.

However, I would avoid it unless you have serious problems with sleeping. Animal studies are showing that it increases the risk of cancer, and damages the retina.

lisaray

Being a Doctor's Assistant, i'll say Melatonin is completely safe and can be taken to fall asleep but make you'll consult your Doctor before taking it....

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pa5tabear	Is using melatonin to help fall asleep safe? Tweet My mom got some and I'm wondering if it's safe to use. Is it actually effective? And are there any other issues associated with it?

Dotini Recognitions: Gold Member	I've used melatonin for quite a few years, 500 mcg tablets, one or at most two, to promote sleep. I find it effective, and without problems. I'm unaware of any safety issues associated with its use, although you will have slightly more, shall we say, "lurid" dreams. :) Respectfully submitted, Steve

Monique Recognitions: Gold Member Science Advisor Staff Emeritus	Is using melatonin to help fall asleep safe? The timing that melatonin is taken is also of importance, it can deregulate sleep rhythm when taken at the wrong hour.

micesacle	Melatonin has very few side-effects in the short-term, as long as you don't overdose. The main problems with overdosing is hypothermia. However, I would avoid it unless you have serious problems with sleeping. Animal studies are showing that it increases the risk of cancer, and damages the retina.

lisaray	Being a Doctor's Assistant, i'll say Melatonin is completely safe and can be taken to fall asleep but make you'll consult your Doctor before taking it....