Mayo Clinic Minute: What to consider before using melatonin supplements for sleep

Dr. Naima Covassin says melatonin is not a sleep promoter. It's a circadian rhythm regulator that can help "reset our clocks" when sleep is difficult due to circadian disruption from things like shift work, jet lag or disorders that interfere with the time of sleep.

Not only are more people using melatonin supplements, they're taking higher doses than the typically recommended maximum dose of 5 or fewer milligrams.

Serious side effects include worsening of seizures; changes in heart rate and blood pressure; decrease in glucose tolerance; and possible drug interactions for people taking medications for seizure disorders, antidepressants and blood thinners.

That's why Dr. Covassin's best recommendation is to talk with your provider.
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