Melatonin
Melatonin is a synthetic version of the naturally occurring hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It plays a critical role in regulating the body's circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle). It is widely used as a dietary supplement and over-the-counter sleep aid, though it is a prescription-only medication in some jurisdictions for specific age groups.
Dosage by Body Weight
For adults, the typical dose is 1 mg to 5 mg taken 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. Start with the lowest possible dose to minimize side effects like daytime drowsiness. Avoid operating machinery or driving for at least 4 to 5 hours after intake. Pediatric use must always be guided by a healthcare provider.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Do not administer to infants. Melatonin is not recommended for this weight group.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Consult a pediatrician. Melatonin is generally not recommended for infants.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Consult pediatrician
- Frequency
- Once daily at bedtime
- Tracking Notes
- Should only be used under strict medical supervision. Typical pediatric starting dose is 0.5 mg to 1 mg if deemed medically necessary.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 0.5 mg to 1 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily, 30-60 minutes before bedtime
- Tracking Notes
- Use only under the guidance of a pediatrician. Monitor for morning grogginess or vivid dreams.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 1 mg to 2 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily, 30-60 minutes before bedtime
- Tracking Notes
- Consult a physician before initiation. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Do not administer to infants. Melatonin is not recommended for this weight group. |
| 5-7 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Consult a pediatrician. Melatonin is generally not recommended for infants. |
| 8-10 kg | Consult pediatrician | Once daily at bedtime | Should only be used under strict medical supervision. Typical pediatric starting dose is 0.5 mg to 1 mg if deemed medically necessary. |
| 11-15 kg | 0.5 mg to 1 mg | Once daily, 30-60 minutes before bedtime | Use only under the guidance of a pediatrician. Monitor for morning grogginess or vivid dreams. |
| 16-20 kg | 1 mg to 2 mg | Once daily, 30-60 minutes before bedtime | Consult a physician before initiation. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used for the short-term regulation of sleep-wake cycles, management of jet lag, shift work sleep disorder, and sleep-onset insomnia.
Generic Name
MelatoninBranded Drug Names
Melatonin is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.