Can You Overdose on Melatonin?
If you’ve ever struggled with sleep problems, you’ve probably had melatonin recommended to you. Sometimes called the “hormone of darkness,” melatonin is commonly used by people who need help falling asleep. Whether you suffer from a sleep disorder or simple jet lag, taking melatonin allows you to drift off without the harmful side effects associated with many common sleeping pills. However, that doesn’t mean that melatonin is without downsides.
One of the main hazards of prescription pills is the potential for overdose. If you’re considering melatonin as an alternative to prescription sleeping pills, there is likely one question on your mind: can you overdose on melatonin? Though melatonin is one of the least toxic sleep aids with minimal side effects, there is still the possibility of having adverse reactions if you consume more than the recommended amount. But how much melatonin is too much?
Signs of a Melatonin Overdose
Generally speaking, the optimal melatonin dosage ranges between 0.3 and 10 mg. Dosages between 20 and 40 mg have been administered safely for the treatment of specific sleep disorders and other health issues. However, that dose is not recommended for people simply looking to get a better night’s sleep.1
While taking too much melatonin is much safer than taking too much of a prescription sleep aid, there are still consequences of overdosing. There are records of people overdosing on melatonin doses of approximately 60 mg or higher. Additionally, some melatonin supplements also include serotonin which can further the effects of overdose. Symptoms of a melatonin overdose include headache, nausea, depression, and feeling dizzy. Fortunately, the recovery process for a melatonin overdose is relatively short and easy. Many patients admitted to hospitals for melatonin overdose were released after a day or two.2
How Much Melatonin Should You Take
Another factor that makes sleeping pills risky is the potential for addiction influencing the likelihood of overdose. Is melatonin addictive? Should you be concerned about developing a dependency? Fortunately, there is no evidence of melatonin being addictive.2 Bear in mind, however, that while melatonin is natural and significantly less hazardous than other sleeping pills it can still be used irresponsibly.
Taking melatonin safely is crucial to your physical health and sleep capabilities. Melatonin is not a one-size-fits-all remedy and different people require different dosages. It is important that you listen both to your doctors and your body to determine whether you’re taking the right amount.
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References
1 Wang, Y., Wang, P., Zheng, X., & Du, X. , (2018), Therapeutic strategies of melatonin in cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis., Dove Medical Press Limited.
2 Chung, C. H. (2001), An upsurge in melatonin overdose: case reports, Hong Kong Journal of Emergency Medicine.
NOTE: The Dove Medical Press Limited, and Hong Kong Journal of Emergency Medicine, have not reviewed or approved the above article.
