Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Melatonin

Melatonin: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What Is Melatonin?

Melatonin is an organic hormone issued at night by the pineal gland located at the brain’s center. Darkness promotes the gland to produce the Melatonin hormone, whereas light decreases this production and release. The hormone primarily regulates the sleep-wake cycle. When the body does not have sufficient amounts of Melatonin for its needs, Melatonin supplements and Melatonin-rich foods help balance its deficiency in the body.

What Are The Uses Of Melatonin?

Today, with everything lit up 24/7 and people constantly exposed to unnatural light at all hours, there are disturbances experienced in sleep patterns. Also, the erratic work-life balance, short-term insomnia, excessive travel at odd hours, jet lag, stress, and anxiety contribute to decreased Melatonin production.

Some uses and benefits of supplemental Melatonin:

  • Eases the sleep process,
  • Prevents chronic cluster headaches, sleep disorders,
  • Mitigates post-surgery anxiety.

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    What Are The Side Effects Of Melatonin?

    Generally, side effects of Melatonin are uncommon but may include:

    • Drowsiness.
    • Headache, dizziness.
    • Nausea.
    • Worsen manic symptoms in patients with bipolar.

    In children, possible side effects include:

    • Increased irritability.
    • Bedwetting.
    • Persistent urination before bed.

    Melatonin may also react with various medications like blood thinners, blood pressure medication, or antidepressants. It is best to check with your doctor before taking a Melatonin supplement.

    What is Melatonin

    Uses of Melatonin

    Side effects of Melatonin

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Melatonin

    Melatonin is one of the safest supplements on the market, with only mild adverse effects. These are:
    • Headache.
    • Dizziness.
    • Nausea.
    • Sleepiness.
    Short-term intake of Melatonin supplements is generally safe, but for long-term use, consult your physician.

    If you want a natural Melatonin boost, here are some food sources that you should add to your diet: Fruits and vegetables: tomatoes, cucumber, cherries, pomegranate, olives, corn, asparagus, grapes, and broccoli. Grains: rice, barley, rolled oats. Nuts and seeds: peanuts, walnuts, mustard seeds, sunflower seeds, flaxseed. Dairy: Milk.

    No, Melatonin is not addictive and does not have a sedative effect. It is a non-habit-forming pill. Generally, people do not possess a psychological dependence on this supplement, even with long-term use. Always follow the prescription instructions to lower the chances of developing dependency or addiction.

    Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, on the other hand, Melatonin is a neurotransmitter-like substance. Serotonin produces signals between nerve cells for responses. Melatonin supervises our body clock. Darkness helps produce Melatonin, and light helps increase Serotonin. Serotonin and Melatonin do opposite jobs, and they should work in harmony to keep the body balanced.

    No, Melatonin does not cause weight gain; instead, it helps individuals lose weight. Melatonin improves metabolism and accelerates weight loss ability. While Melatonin alone cannot aid in massive weight loss, it is highly recommended as a strategy.

    Melatonin is not a direct prescription drug for anxiety but can significantly improve symptoms of anxiety. It can improve one's sleep quality, regulate circadian rhythm, and ease negative feelings associated with anxiety. Melatonin may effectively reduce pre and post-surgical stress. It is important to consult with your doctor before taking Melatonin for anxiety. Your healthcare professional will require you to understand the root causes and work through them with you.

    No, Melatonin does not make you feel tired the next day. Upon waking, you may feel a little groggy, but this will generally disappear after getting ready for the morning. If it exceeds the optimal dose, it may cause morning hangover and daytime drowsiness. It is advised to take Melatonin late evening around 7 pm and choose the correct amount, so you wake up feeling fresh.

    Generally, you will begin to feel sleepy within 15 to 30 minutes after consuming. Melatonin supplements are best given 30 to 60 minutes before bed, with peak levels around an hour later.

    No, Melatonin will help you stay asleep throughout the night. The effects of a dose of Melatonin will last for around six to eight hours after intake. Always choose the correct dose after consulting a healthcare professional. Sometimes low doses of Melatonin supplements may affect your sleep cycle.

    Melatonin will stay in the body for about 5-6 hours. If you stay awake after taking a Melatonin supplement, you're more likely to feel tired, nauseous, or even hallucinate. It is highly recommended you avoid driving or strenuous activity within 2-5 hours of taking it.