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There is controversy concerning the effects of melatonin on inter-ocular pressure, and
thus on persons taking medication for glaucoma. The Natural Standard urges
monitoring by the physician prescribing the medication.
Berkeley Wellness warns that aspirin, beta blockers, and tranquilizers can affect
melatonin levels. Like benzodiazepines (such as diazepam (Valium) or triazolam
(Halcion)), often described as sleeping pills, melatonin can produce a “hangover" and
drowsiness the next day. Persons taking benzodiazepines should beware of the
potential for an additive effect.
- SIDE EFFECTS:
Melatonin is classified by the FDA as “generally regarded as safe” in recommended
doses for short-term use. The AHRQ confirms that evidence suggests that melatonin is
safe with short-term use.
Mild gastrointestinal distress commonly occurs, including nausea, vomiting or
cramping. Melatonin has been linked to a case of autoimmune hepatitis and with
triggering Crohn’s disease symptoms.
Brown et al. list fatigue, dizziness, headache, and irritability as “infrequent and usually
mild" side effects of melatonin supplementation.
Berkeley Wellness warns that “chronic” (long-term) use of melatonin supplements may
suppress the body’s own melatonin production and can interact with other hormones.
Therefore, Berkeley says, pregnant women and children should never take melatonin.
Brown et al. state that consumers who experience cognitive or memory impairment or
daytime drowsiness from benzodiazepines may respond to melatonin with fewer
adverse effects.
“Fortunately,” Weil adds, “one does not develop tolerance to melatonin as with other
sleep aids, and it rarely has negative side effects.”^17
Commonly reported side effects include mild fatigue, dizziness, headache, irritability,
and sleepiness, although the Natural Standard acknowledges that these may be caused
more by the jet lag than by the melatonin. Fatigue can be more pronounced with
