Melatonin is a hormone produced in the brain that regulates the body’s sleep-wake cycle, and its popularity as a sleep-boosting supplement has grown dramatically in recent years. One survey found that more than a quarter of U.S. adults take melatonin to help them sleep. These over-the-counter formulations are made with synthetic forms of melatonin, and they come in tablet, capsule, liquid, and gummy form. Melatonin has fewer potential side effects than many prescription sleep aids, and supplements are generally considered safe when taken properly. Your sleep may improve if you avoid these seven common mistakes. You Don’t Practice Other Good Sleep Hygiene Strategies. Melatonin is one effective option in the sleep toolbox, but it shouldn’t be the only one you try, and it also shouldn’t be the first step you take if you’re not sleeping well. You Think Melatonin Makes You Sleepy. Dr. Grandner says this is the most common misconception about melatonin. Unlike many prescription sleeping pills, melatonin isn’t a sedative. It works by signaling to your body that it’s nighttime and encouraging your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle to help you power down for the night. If you’re using it to knock yourself out every night, it won’t. It will help shift your sleep patterns if you’re struggling with things like jet lag or an irregular sleep schedule because of shift work, but it isn’t very effective for insomnia caused by other issues.
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Thursday, June 26, 2025