Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced in the body to regulate your internal clock, or circadian rhythm. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains the body increases melatonin production when it is dark, and decreases production during day time hours. Melatonin supplements come in pill form and is often used to adjust your sleep cycle. People also take the supplement for Alzheimer's disease, chronic fatigue syndrome and depression, reports MedlinePlus. Still, more research is necessary to determine how affective melatonin is to treat insomnia and other conditions.
Alert Levels
Melatonin may decrease your alertness, says MedlinePlus. Do not drive or use heavy machinery for five hours after taking the supplement. Melatonin should not be administered when taking sedatives, such as clonazepam, lorazepam or zolpidem. Decrease the amount of melatonin you take if you feel drowsy when you wake up. There is no recommended daily dose for melatonin supplements. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the body makes less than .03 mg of melatonin. Take around the same amount your body produces. Start with a small dose and slowly increase, suggests the medical center. Taking too much melatonin may increase anxiety and irritability.
Depression
Melatonin may increase symptoms of depression. If you take an antidepressant or suffer from depression, understand melatonin may contradict the medication you are taking. Speak with your medical professional prior to taking the supplement. Fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, may decrease current levels of melatonin in your system.
Cardiovascular Effects
Avoid melatonin if you are taking blood pressure medications. The supplement may make blood pressure medications less effective. Calcium-channel blockers also decrease melatonin effectiveness, says MedlinePlus. These drugs include nifedipine, amlodipine and verapamil. Melatonin decreases blood clotting and increases the risk of bruising. If you suffer from heart disease or high blood pressure, speak with your medical professional before taking melatonin.
Minor Effects
Some people have lucid or extremely vivid dreams when taking melatonin. Stomach cramps, dizziness, headache and decreased libido are additional side effects of melatonin supplements, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Side effects occur more commonly when people take higher doses. Always begin taking melatonin in the smallest dose. Ask your medical professional for advice on if melatonin is safe to take and at what dose to begin treatment with.
Time Frame and Types
You should only take synthetic melatonin, says MayoClinic.com. Taking melatonin made from animals contains viruses and other contaminants. Do not take the supplement longer than two months. Longer treatment may cause harmful side effects, warns MayoClinic.com.
Member Comments