Melatonin is a naturally-occurring hormone released in your brain that is used by your body to maintain your normal sleep-wake cycle, also called the circadian rhythm. Treatment with an over-the-counter or OTC form of melatonin may be beneficial if you struggle with the sleep disorder insomnia or if you have sleeping problems due to menopause. Discuss the side effects of melatonin with a medical professional before beginning treatment with this OTC supplement.
Drowsiness or Headache
Treatment with melatonin may cause daytime drowsiness, which can affect your ability to focus or remain attentive during normal daily activities, such as work or school. You may also develop uncomfortable or persistent headache pain, Drugs.com reports. You should avoid driving or participating in potentially hazardous activities for several hours after taking melatonin, as increased fatigue may make such activities dangerous to you or those around you.
Upset Stomach
After taking a dose of this OTC supplement, you may develop an upset stomach. Common stomach-related side effects of melatonin include stomach cramps or abdominal discomfort, MedlinePlus warns. Depending upon the severity of upset stomach side effects, you may also develop a temporary decrease in your appetite.
Depression or Irritability
If you suffer from depression, you may notice that your depression symptoms increase in severity while you take melatonin, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports. This supplement may also result in the emergence of depression symptoms, such as irritability, lethargy or decreased interest in daily activities. Talk with your doctor immediately if you develop depression symptoms or experience suicidal thoughts to ensure you receive prompt and appropriate care.
Sexual Complications
You may develop a decrease in your usual sexual libido as a side effect of this OTC supplement. Men receiving treatment with melatonin may also experience additional sexual complications including decreased sperm count or gynecomastia, a condition characterized by an abnormal increase in breast size, the UMMC warns. If these side effects of melatonin are bothersome consult a medical professional.
Nightmares
Melatonin may cause bizarre or vivid nightmares in certain people, MayoClinic.com reports. Nightmares may disrupt your normal sleep patterns, which may exacerbate drowsiness side effects. If you experience recurrent nightmares or begin to sleepwalk while taking melatonin contact your physician as soon as possible.
Member Comments