Melatonin is a hormone that is naturally produced by the body in response to darkness and helps regulate sleep. It is also available as a supplement and is commonly used to treat sleep disorders and jet lag.

However, like any medication, melatonin can interact with other drugs and may cause side effects.

Drug Interactions

It is important to talk to your doctor before taking melatonin if you are also taking any other medications, as there are some drugs that can interact with melatonin:.

Anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs

Melatonin may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with these medications, including aspirin, warfarin, and clopidogrel.

Birth control pills

Melatonin may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills.

Central nervous system depressants

Combining melatonin with other substances that have a sedative effect such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids can cause excessive drowsiness and difficulty with coordination.

Diabetes medications

Melatonin may interfere with the regulation of blood sugar levels in people taking diabetes medications such as insulin.

Immunosuppressants

Melatonin may reduce the effectiveness of immunosuppressive medications used to prevent rejection of transplanted organs.

Verapamil

Melatonin may increase the absorption of verapamil, a medication used to treat high blood pressure and heart rhythm disorders.

Potential Side Effects

While melatonin is generally considered safe when used as directed, there are some potential side effects to be aware of:.

Daytime drowsiness

One of the most common side effects of melatonin is drowsiness that persists into the following day. This can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely.

Headaches

Some people experience headaches as a side effect of melatonin. If this happens to you, talk to your doctor about trying a different sleep aid.

Dizziness

Some people may experience dizziness when taking melatonin. This can be especially dangerous if you are prone to falls or are taking other medications that can cause dizziness.

Nausea

Melatonin can cause nausea in some people. If this happens to you, try taking it with food or talk to your doctor about switching to a different sleep aid.

Mood changes

In rare cases, melatonin can cause changes in mood, including anxiety, depression, and irritability. If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor right away.

Conclusion

Melatonin is a useful sleep aid for many people, but it is important to be aware of its potential drug interactions and side effects.

Always talk to your doctor before starting any new medication, including melatonin, and be sure to report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider.