Is melatonin safe? Melatonin is one of the least toxic substances known. The only side effects related with taking a large amount of melatonin are continued drowsiness and a slower reaction time. Many people are discouraged from taking melatonin. People with the symptoms of severe mental illness, severe allergies, auto-immune diseases, or immune system cancers such as leukemia should not be taking melatonin. It is also not recommended during pregnancy or for women who want to conceive. There have not been many significant studies done with this drug. While it appears to be safe, melatonin has not yet been approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
A normal question with any dietary supplement is how much should someone take? There is no answer for this question. One study suggests that a 1.5mg dosage at bedtime would be the best. The appropriate dose can vary enormously form person to person. One doctor has administered doses ranging from .1 mg to 200 mg, and has seen results both ways. Another researcher suggests to begin melatonin treatment with one mg before bedtime. If it does not aid in falling to sleep, increase the dosage. If a user wakes up feeling fatigued or hung over, decrease the dosage. It is agreed upon that it should be taken before bedtime.