What Is Melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone manufactured by the pineal gland, a gland located in the middle of the brain. The hormone helps regulate the body's circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle). Melatonin levels increase after sunset, and they remain elevated overnight. They decrease sharply around sunrise, and this causes individuals to wake from sleep. Melatonin supplements are available in tablet, liquid, and gummy formulations, and they are used primarily as natural sleep aids. The recommended dosage of melatonin is based on the patient's age. Pediatric patients can safely take up to six milligrams of melatonin, and doctors suggest starting with a dose of 0.5 milligrams for this age group. The dose should be taken thirty to sixty minutes before bedtime. Adults should start with a dose of 0.2 milligrams, and they can work up to a maximum dose of five milligrams. Patients in this age group should take melatonin supplements sixty minutes before bed. For older adults over sixty years old, the recommended starting dose is one milligram, and the suggested maximum dose is six milligrams.