I take a Melatonin pill at night as a sleep aid. Is this bad for my long-term health?

Answer 1

I've taken Melatonin on several occasions, although I've been careful not to make a regular habit of it. As sleep aids go, I think it's relatively harmless, but it's never a good idea to become dependent on any sort of drug or supplement to fall asleep each night. I've found that hot milk with a dash of vanilla extract works well when I'm having trouble falling asleep, and that's definitely harmless (unless you're lactose intolerant, of course).

One important thing to note: Melatonin is not supposed to be taken if you're pregnant or nursing.

Answer 2

I was told recently that you need a very dark room to help produce Melatonin. I had not heard this before but I have taken to the habit of sleeping with an eye mask on as my room is not dark enough. I have found it works very well for me and that I don't have to take a sleep aid. I prefer not to have to rely on a pill whether herbal or not. Good luck.

Answer 3

melatonin is actually a safe sleep aid. our brains naturally produce melatonin every night when we get tired, before we go to bed. the pineal gland located in the bain secretes melatonin. by taking a melatonin pill, which is just additional melatonin added to the body, you just get sleepier faster. long term, i dont think it is dangerou,s but you may find that your body becomes reliant on the extra melatonin to make you sleep...not that you become addicted because it is not harmful. but it may make natural sleeping more difficult.

Answer 4

YES, the over the counter melatonin pills have about 10 times the maximum amount of daily melatonin intake that is considered safe. That kind of dosing has been shown to cause birth defects so be careful.

Answer 5

Probably not, but the evidence is sketchy.
See this: http://www.jr2.ox.ac.uk/bandolier/band145/b145-6.html

Answer 6

hmmmmmmmmmmmmm..............