is it sold at most pharmacies as over-the-counter?
2007-01-18 18:27:35 · 4 answers · asked by Sammy 5 in Health ➔ Other - Health
thanks. my blood pressure is very low so melatonin making it higher wont be a bad thing
2007-01-19 07:31:22 · update #1
Yes, it is sold at most pharmacies as over-the-counter (at least in USA it is) and it works wonders as a sleep inducer. And in the morning you don't feel too groggy like I do with prescription meds. Try taking just one the first time you try it (instead of two, like the bottle instructs)
2007-01-18 18:33:19 · answer #1 · answered by X me Out 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Melatonin is available over the counter in varying doses of up to 3 mg per tablet. However, a fraction of this is required for insomnia, usually about 0.3 mg or less. Too much melatonin or taking it at the wrong time can interrupt normal circadian patterns. Melatonin is produced at its highest level in the pineal gland during darkness. Since melatonin occurs naturally in some foods, it can be sold as an over the counter dietary supplement. It is only one of two hormones (the other is DHEA) not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Natural, animal, and bovine melatonin supplements contain actual extracts from pineal glands. Synthetic melatonin is made from non-animal ingredients and is suitable for vegetarians. It is similar in molecular structure to melatonin produced in the body.
Women who are on estrogen or estrogen replacement therapy should not take melatonin without consulting their doctor. Since the safety of melatonin use during pregnancy has not been adequately studied, women who are pregnant or breast feeding a child should not take melatonin. Also, women who are trying to get pregnant should avoid using it since some research suggests it may have a contraceptive effect. Studies in animals suggest melatonin can constrict blood vessels, which can raise blood pressure. Therefore, persons with hypertension or cardiovascular problems should consult with their doctor before taking the hormone. It is not recommended for people with lymphoma or leukemia, and should not be used by children.
2007-01-19 02:36:04 · answer #2 · answered by samuel prassy 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes. You can buy them at the pharmacy off the shelf or the food stores that have a pharmacy if they carry it. It is sold at Walgreens, CVS, Target, and Walmart and any other major supplier.
2007-01-19 02:30:35 · answer #3 · answered by Sparkles 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I get mine from a health Food Store!
Great for Jet-lag,and getting your system working properly again!!
2007-01-19 02:31:28 · answer #4 · answered by J. Charles 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋