Does anyone use Melatonin to have a good sleep?

[Fiona2011231]

May I ask for your experience?

I was told a medicine, Melatonin, can enhance sleep quality.

Does anyone use this medicine? I would appreciate your advice.

Thank you

[pinkfrocks]

You can't buy it legally in the UK, if that helps.

[CrotchMaven]

I do. Bought it otc in the US, where I think it is classed as a supplement.

Works a treat - undisturbed sleep but with no grogginess. Only use it when I'm in a brain - whirring busy time, so my supply doesn't run out.

[cowbiscuits74]

I use it occasionally if my sleep pattern gets out of whack or for jetlag. I am overseas and got mine at the local supermarket but had heard it is not legal in the UK. Don't know why as it does not knock you out or make you too sleepy next day and I cant see it being addictive, its more of a herbal supplement well that is how it is marketed anyway. maybe look out for some if you go abroad and just research first to check you wont get any side effects or if it will interfere with other medications you are taking. if in doubt clear it with your GP first. good luck as i know how rotten insomnia can be

[LeftRightCentre]

I have used it daily for years. Great stuff.

[pinkfrocks]

Doesn't it affect hormone levels? Melatonin is a hormone produced by the body to help induce sleep patterns.
Like all hormones it should not be 'abused' and taken ( literally ) without medical supervision.

The following link tells you about it- not for the under 55s and for no more than 13 weeks.

www.nhs.uk/medicine-guides/pages/MedicineOverview.aspx?condition=Insomnia&medicine=Melatonin&preparationMelatonin%202mg%20modified-release

[LeftRightCentre]

Well, I've been taking it for yonks. So have thousands as it's a supplement in a lot of countries.

[NotQuiteCockney]

Yeah, it's a standard OTC supplement in Canada and the US. I take it from time to time, not daily, and I generally take about 1mg or less, rather than the 'standard' 3mg dose.

[moggiek]

Isn't it the stuff you buy from vitaminsuk and numerous other UK retailers?

[MrsGromit]

Left - what dose do you take?

[LeftRightCentre]

10mg/night.