Skip to main content Skip to bottom nav

Should I use melatonin?

18 Answers
Last Updated: 11/16/2021 at 8:42pm
Take the first step toward feeling better
Begin your therapy journey today and receive $25 off (use code 25OFF7C)
Moderated by

Johanna Liasides, MSc, PhDc

Psychologist

I work with youth and young adults to help them improve depressive symptoms and self-esteem as well as effectively address family, relationship and peer conflicts.

Top Rated Answers
Profile: CaitlinRose
CaitlinRose
October 27th, 2014 8:07pm
It is always important to check with a medical doctor before using any medications to make sure that you will have no interactions with existing medications and/or conditions. That being said, yes, Melatonin can be very helpful for sleep.
Profile: milkteeth
milkteeth
November 6th, 2014 2:59pm
If you're having troubles sleeping, I recommend talking to your doctor about the use of melatonin. Although it doesn't have to be prescribed and is over the counter in Amereica (and I'm sure other places), many others require a prescription because it does lead to some complications. It's natural and can be safer than anti-anxiety meds and other sleeping medication. Similarly, it's a lot safer for children. I was prescribed it despite not needing a prescription, and it didn't work for me but trying isn't bad! Just make sure you take a safe dose at a good time, because it leaves some people drowsy or they won't wake up. It's best to try on a weekend. Good luck!!!!!
Profile: Wanda05
Wanda05
November 18th, 2014 4:11pm
I think I would consult my doctor first before using Melatonin. Same thing applies with other drugs or supplements, a physician's prescription should always be considered.
Anonymous
January 8th, 2015 2:14am
Melatonin is a hormone produced by your pineal gland. The pineal gland creates and releases melatonin in response to optic nerve stimulation via lack of light. You can increase your brain's, natural melatonin production by reducing exposure to artificial light an hour before bedtime, especially computer and mobile device screens. Taking over the counter melatonin can help you sleep, but it can also cause your pineal gland to produce less melatonin naturally, causing rebound insomnia once you quit taking it. Consult your doctor for detailed advice and information.
Anonymous
December 25th, 2014 11:32pm
It depends. Even though it is a vitamin, you should seek your drs advice and approval. Melatonin is not an option for me because of the antidepressant I am on.
Profile: Margiewm
Margiewm
November 16th, 2021 8:42pm
Melatonin can help you calm down before bed and aid with sleep. Our bodies make melatonin but sometimes not enough so taking melatonin is a natural way to help aid our bodies in a good sleep.Try take it 20 minutes before you go to bed and have your sleeping area ready so all you have to do is go in and get into bed. This will assure you have a good nights sleep and are taking advantage of the benefits of the melatonin . Put some soft music on and make sure your room is a comfortable temperature and this should also aid in a restful sleep. I hope that you get a great nights sleep.
Profile: Jezabel
Jezabel
November 27th, 2018 12:41am
I think that depends why you are considering the use of melatonin. For example, if you have consistently bad sleep, then melatonin will not help you sleep sounder. Instead practicing a good sleep hygiene (such as going to bed at the same time every night and not staying in bed when you can't sleep). However, if you are just struggling a few nights because of jetlag, for example, I don't see the harm in trying melatonin for a couple nights. Just be aware of the dosage! People commonly make the mistake of assuming that taking higher doses of melatonin will lead to better shut-eye. But the opposite is true: Too much taken at once can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, or irritability, all of which can disrupt your sleep. Between two tenths of a milligram and five milligrams 60 minutes before bedtime is a typical dose for adults!
Profile: Paige81
Paige81
May 23rd, 2017 4:50am
It is generally advised that medications including prescriptions, over-the-counter and supplements be reviewed with a physician, nurse or pharmacist.
Profile: BeInJoy
BeInJoy
February 8th, 2016 3:02am
Melatonin is fairly harmless but one thing that is often not covered when taking the supplement is that you have to used it continuously to see any lasting effect. If you'd like something you can take just on days you feel you can't sleep 5HTP (or tryptophan) works much better. Valerian root works for some, but also has reports of vivid nightmares.
Anonymous
November 9th, 2015 2:20pm
Many of my friends use melatonin , yes you can use it but in moderation, It does effect your body inside and out
Profile: Peacefulmeditation
Peacefulmeditation
August 31st, 2015 3:40pm
Only if your healthcare provider says it's okay for you. It is a hormone found in your body, but the dose that's in tablets and other forms is often multiples of 10 times higher than what's found in normal people.
Profile: Mogsyt
Mogsyt
June 6th, 2015 10:56am
its up too you, i do, on bad days it helps you get to sleep naturally. but i would first consider talking to a doctor or physician to discuss the appropriate dose for you. it can really help.
Profile: RaleighC
RaleighC
October 23rd, 2014 1:48am
Melatonin is an over the counter (for the most part) natural sleep aid. It might be a good choice for you, but the best thing to do is to ask your doctor about it to be sure that it's right for you.
Profile: CelestialMoons
CelestialMoons
December 22nd, 2014 4:44am
Only if your doctor says it's safe. Even vitamins and supplements should be under a doctor's supervision because it could interact with medications or conditions you have.
Profile: guyinasuit
guyinasuit
December 18th, 2014 2:13pm
It's honestly best to speak to your doctor about whether or not you should use it. They can advise the correct dosage you should take as well!
Profile: AstridKingsley
AstridKingsley
December 8th, 2014 3:40am
Sure! It doesn't have any known side effects, it's natural, nonprescription, relatively inexpensive, and it helps to reset your body's natural sleep cycle. If you'd like to try it there's really no reason not to give it a try :)
Profile: ChaiChelsea
ChaiChelsea
November 8th, 2014 8:24am
It would be best to ask a health care professional about melatonin. I have used melatonin for both general insomnia as well as insomnia brought on by a change in sleep cycle and jet lag. It worked best for me personally when using it to correct a sleep cycle/schedule, but individual results would vary.
Profile: ZoeAlwaysSmile
ZoeAlwaysSmile
October 25th, 2014 5:42pm
Melatonin is a natural herb which can help you to sleep. Is really useful, but if sleeping bad is interfering way too much with your life, you should visit a therapist. You can also read the "Sleeping well guide", which will help you! Melatonin is great for sleeping well