Melatonin is a hormone produced naturally by the pineal gland in the brain in response to darkness. It helps regulate your body's circadian rhythm, the internal biological clock that controls your sleep-wake cycle. It signals to your body when it’s time to wind down and sleep, typically increasing in the evening as it gets darker and decreasing during the daytime. In supplement form, Melatonin is commonly used to help manage sleep-related issues like insomnia or jet lag.

Melatonin works by influencing the brain's internal clock, which controls your sleep-wake cycles. When you take melatonin tablets, the synthetic Melatonin mimics the natural hormone, signalling to your body that it is time to prepare for sleep. This can help adjust the body's sleep schedule, especially in cases like jet lag or insomnia. Melatonin supplements are most effective when the body is in sync with natural light and dark cycles, so it is usually taken at night to promote relaxation and sleep.

Melatonin tablets should typically be taken 30 minutes to 1 hour before bedtime. This is because melatonin works by preparing your body to fall asleep and taking it too early might interfere with your regular sleep pattern. If you're using Melatonin for jet lag, it’s recommended to take the tablet based on the new time zone you're entering, starting around the time you want to fall asleep in that time zone. Always follow your GP’s instructions or the packaging for the best results.

Yes, Melatonin is effective for jet lag. When you travel across multiple time zones, your body’s internal clock gets out of sync with the local time, leading to symptoms like fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and trouble concentrating. Melatonin helps by regulating your circadian rhythm, making it easier to adjust to the new time zone. Taking Melatonin before bedtime in the new time zone can reduce the symptoms of jet lag and help your body adjust more quickly to the new schedule.

While Melatonin is sometimes prescribed for children with sleep disorders (such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep), it should only be used under the guidance of a GP. The dosage for children will often differ from the standard adult dose, and the use of Melatonin should be closely monitored. It’s generally not recommended for children unless prescribed, as the long-term effects on children’s health are still being studied. 

Melatonin is generally considered safe for short-term use, such as for managing jet lag or occasional sleep issues. However, it is not recommended to take Melatonin every night for extended periods unless advised by a GP. Prolonged use of Melatonin may interfere with the body’s natural production of Melatonin and potentially disrupt the sleep-wake cycle. If you have chronic sleep problems, it’s best to address the underlying causes with the help of a GP.

Melatonin typically starts to work within 30 minutes to 1 hour after taking it. The time it takes to feel its effects can vary depending on the individual’s sensitivity to Melatonin and other factors like the environment and sleep habits. It is important to take Melatonin when you’re ready to sleep, in a quiet, dark environment, to ensure that it works effectively.

While Melatonin is generally considered safe for short-term use, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include:

Melatonin is generally safe for older adults, but they may be more sensitive to its effects. Older adults may require lower doses to achieve the same sleep benefits as younger individuals. Additionally, older adults are more likely to be taking other medications that may interact with Melatonin, so it’s crucial for them to consult with their GP before using Melatonin. They should also be cautious of daytime drowsiness or dizziness, as these side effects may be more pronounced in older individuals.

Melatonin can interact with certain medications, so it’s important to speak with your GP before combining it with other medicines. Some common medications that may interact with Melatonin include:

    - Sedatives or sleep aids, which can amplify melatonin’s sedative effects.

    - Blood thinner,s which may be affected by Melatonin’s interaction with certain enzymes.

    - Blood pressure medications, as Melatonin can influence blood pressure in some people.

    - Diabetes medications, since Melatonin might affect insulin sensitivity.

Your GP can help you determine if Melatonin is safe to use alongside your other medications.

Melatonin may be right for you if you struggle with sleep issues such as difficulty falling asleep, insomnia, or adjusting to new time zones. It is most commonly used for short-term sleep problems like jet lag or shift work. If you have persistent or chronic sleep problems, it's a good idea to consult with your GP to discuss the potential benefits and risks of Melatonin and to explore other treatment options if needed.

No, Melatonin is not addictive. Unlike many prescription sleep aids, Melatonin does not cause dependency or addiction. It’s a natural hormone that your body produces, and taking it in supplement form doesn’t lead to withdrawal symptoms or cravings. However, it’s important to use Melatonin as directed and only for short-term use unless your GP advises otherwise.

Melatonin tablets should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep them in their original packaging or bottle to protect them from light. Store melatonin out of the reach of children to avoid accidental ingestion.

There is no strong evidence to suggest that Melatonin poses significant long-term risks when used properly. However, it’s important to avoid long-term use without medical supervision, as it could disrupt your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Additionally, prolonged use may lead to hormonal imbalances, particularly in children and adolescents. Long-term effects are still being studied, so it’s best to consult your GP if you plan to use Melatonin for extended periods.

It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Melatonin. Alcohol can interfere with Melatonin’s effectiveness and may increase the risk of side effects, such as dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired coordination. Combining Melatonin and alcohol can also make you feel groggy the next day, affecting your ability to function during the day.

Some studies suggest that Melatonin may interact with hormonal birth control by altering the effectiveness of certain contraceptives. The interaction may be due to Melatonin’s effect on certain liver enzymes that metabolize birth control hormones. If you’re taking birth control, talk to your GP before using Melatonin to ensure there are no potential interactions.

For jet lag, the typical dose is 3mg to 5mg, taken about 30 minutes to 1 hour before bedtime in the new time zone. Start taking Melatonin a few days before your trip and continue for several days after arriving at your destination. The exact dosage and timing may vary depending on individual needs and the severity of your jet lag.

Yes, Melatonin can help with insomnia, especially if the condition is related to irregular sleep patterns or disruptions in your circadian rhythm. Melatonin can help you fall asleep more easily and improve the quality of your sleep. However, it is more effective for people with mild to moderate insomnia. If you have chronic insomnia or other underlying sleep disorders, it’s best to consult with a GP to explore more comprehensive treatment options.