"Understanding Melatonin Safety: Expert Guidelines for Children's Use"
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Daily Mail
Health experts warn against the rising misuse of melatonin, particularly in children, with overdoses increasing by 500% over the past decade. Melatonin, a popular over-the-counter sleep supplement, is often taken in higher doses than recommended, leading to potential risks such as nausea, vomiting, grogginess, and even dementia. The unregulated nature of the supplement market contributes to the problem, with some products containing significantly different melatonin levels than advertised. Adults are advised to limit intake to 5 milligrams per day, while children should only take 0.3 to 1 milligram. The increase in pediatric hospitalizations and two reported deaths from melatonin overdoses highlight the need for caution and more research into the long-term effects of melatonin use.