Melatonin is a hormone that regulates your body's circadian rhythm or sleep cycle, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC. It plays an integral role in your waking up and falling asleep. Melatonin dietary supplements are readily available over the counter. Melatonin supplements are offered in 3-mg doses. Be aware of the side effects of melatonin before you use this supplement, and consult your physician before purchasing or taking melatonin.
Tachycardia
In rare cases, melatonin has caused tachycardia. According to MayoClinic.com, tachycardia is when your heart rate is faster than normal. A healthy adult heart beats 60 to 100 times in a minute when resting; with tachycardia, the rate is increased significantly. Tachycardia may disrupt the normal heart function, increase chances of a stroke or even cause sudden cardiac arrest or death.
Risk for Diabetics
Melatonin may raise blood sugar in people with diabetes, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Library of Medicine. If you suffer from diabetes, you should talk with your doctor to see if melatonin is an option for you. Discuss proper ways to monitor your blood sugar if you choose to take melatonin. You should use extra caution, because your blood sugar may increase while you are sleeping.
Other Side Effects
Melatonin may cause other side effects such as nausea, dizziness, headache, itching, irritability, restlessness and abdominal cramps. Some users have experienced more vivid nightmares or dreams after taking melatonin. Excess use of melatonin may disrupt circadian rhythms and alter your sleep patterns. You should avoid taking melatonin during the day, as it causes drowsiness. If you experience drowsiness the morning following an evening dose of melatonin, you should change to a lower dose. Melatonin has made the symptoms of depression worse, so if you suffer from depression, you should talk with your doctor about alternatives to help you sleep. Drugs.com warns that you should consult your doctor right away if you experience any of the following severe side effects while taking melatonin: rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue; confusion; depression; fast heartbeat; or hypothermia, which involves fast breathing and shivering.
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