Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that plays a critical role in maintaining your body's internal clock, which helps regulate your sleep cycle, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. As a supplement, melatonin is used to treat insomnia, jet lag and other conditions. Research suggests that melatonin is usually safe and effective, but not all studies agree. Consult your doctor before taking melatonin.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of melatonin are tiredness, lightheadedness, headache, irritability, nausea, vomiting, cramping and drowsiness, according to MayoClinic.com. These effects are more likely to occur if you take melatonin in the morning or take high doses. Some people have also reported confusion, sleepwalking, more vivid dreams and nightmares while taking melatonin. A slight risk of infection or an allergic skin reaction may accompany melatonin usage. Because of the increased risk of daytime sleepiness, you should be careful about driving or operating machinery while taking the supplement.
Heart Disease Dangers
Melatonin may cause problems with blood clotting and should be avoided by patients already taking blood thinners or who have clotting disorders, according to MayoClinic.com. The supplement may also cause a drop in blood pressure, which could be dangerous if you have low blood pressure or are taking drugs to lower your blood pressure. Melatonin may also raise cholesterol levels and has been linked to cases of irregular heartbeat. If you have heart disease, high cholesterol, heart rhythm abnormalities or are at risk for these conditions, talk to your doctor before taking melatonin.
Psychological Dangers
People taking melatonin have reported mood or psychological effects. Mood changes include giddiness and sadness, but more serious symptoms such as hallucinations and paranoia have been reported as well. These problems may be due to overdosing on the supplement, according to MayoClinic.com. Melatonin may worsen the symptoms of depression, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you have depression or another psychological problem, you should talk to your doctor before taking melatonin.
Hormonal Dangers
Melatonin has been reported to increase breast size in men and decrease sperm count and motility, according to MayoClinic.com. These effects cleared up when the supplement was stopped. If you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, you should not take melatonin, as it may increase the risk of birth defects and also make it more difficult to get pregnant. Melatonin has also been linked to decreased libido, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It should be avoided during breastfeeding. Because of its hormonal effects, melatonin could interfere with normal development, especially in adolescents, according to MedlinePlus. It should not be used in children.
Diabetic Dangers
Melatonin may interfere with blood glucose levels, which could be a problem for patients with diabetes or related conditions. Consult with a doctor before taking melatonin if you have diabetes, so your condition may be monitored and your medication adjusted if necessary.
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