Sleep aid
Melatonin
Tablet
Quick Summary
Melatonin signals to the body that it's night.
Insomnia in older adults
Jet lag
Sleep problems in some children
Medical Uses
Insomnia in older adults: Short-term.
Jet lag: Adjusting sleep timing.
Sleep problems in some children: Under specialist advice.
How it's taken
Take 1–2 hours before bedtime as advised.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you and how long to take it.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.
Common Side Effects
Headache
Sometimes.
Daytime drowsiness
Sometimes.
Dizziness
Rarely.
Interactions
Alcohol and sedatives
Increase drowsiness.
Fluvoxamine
Raises levels.
Critical Warnings
Drowsiness
Don't drive or use machines if it makes you sleepy, and avoid alcohol.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.