Side Effects of Taking Melatonin

Side effects of taking melatonin vary from one individual to another and can be influenced by factors such as the time of day and the frequency of consumption.

Melatonin levels affect sleep patterns.

Melatonin is a hormone that influences the quality of your sleep/wake cycle. It is produced in the pineal gland which is located in the brain. Naturally occurring levels of melatonin levels start rising in the late afternoon and are higher in most people just before it's time to go to bed. This is why many people who struggle with insomnia take melatonin supplements to help them fall asleep or stay asleep.

While natural melatonin helps people fall asleep and stay asleep, supplements have actually shown minimal effectiveness in combating insomnia. However studies have shown that taking melatonin benefits people in overcoming the effects of jet lag.

How much melatonin a person should take is still an unknown. Studies have yet to determine its long-term effects. If you're seriously considering taking melatonin, it's best to talk to your doctor about whether or not it is right for you. Your doctor will know your medical history including underlying health conditions and current medications and how they may interact with melatonin. When the time comes to buy your supplement, check for quality and be aware that some supplements are derived from animals.

If you are of the mindset that you prefer to get the nutrients you need from dietary sources, melatonin can be found in small amounts in foods like:

• Meats
• Grains
• Fruits
• Vegetables

Side effects from taking melatonin may be more bothersome if you take the supplement in the morning. That's because it is more likely to make you drowsy during the day which may also interfere with your normal sleep cycle and even cause insomnia at night. Taking melatonin at night often reduces the occurrence of side effects.

Some studies point to side effects of taking melatonin that include increased risk of seizures. Not all studies agree on this, but it is worth noting and talking to your doctor for the most current information.

Some of the more common side effects related to taking melatonin include things like:

• Abdominal discomfort (cramps)
• Confusion
• Daytime sleepiness
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Irritability
• Nausea
• Nightmares
• Shakiness
• Sleepwalking
• Vomiting

Taking melatonin in the evening and/or lowering your dose of melatonin often helps to alleviate many of these side effects.

While the above side effects can be somewhat bothersome, most of the time they are not serious. However, the following side effects, while infrequent, pose a more serious threat. If you experience any of these side effects, it is important to contact your doctor immediately.

• Allergic reaction – This can include symptoms such as hives, itching, rash, swelling of the throat or mouth, or difficulty breathing.
• Anxiety
• Confusion
• Depression
• Low blood pressure
• Seizures

To help you figure out whether or not this supplement may be right for you, it's good to know that your natural melatonin production is influenced by light. For example, as the days grow shorter, melatonin levels often start to rise later in the day and in some cases earlier in the day. The problem is that this can lead to what some call winter depression. Taking a melatonin supplement may help to regulate levels and decrease symptoms.

Another group who often benefit from melatonin is people whose bodies make little or no melatonin. This includes senior citizens. As we age, natural levels of melatonin gradually decrease. In some cases, older adults generate very low levels or none at all.

Melatonin does help many people fight insomnia, but if you are thinking of taking this supplement be sure to talk to your doctor first.

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