What is Melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone that is produced naturally by the body from the pineal gland in the brain. Melatonin forms part of the signal series in the circadian rhythm. In particular, Melatonin influences the onset of sleep by causing drowsiness and a lowering of the body temperature.

Can I Buy Melatonin in the UK?

The Online Clinic is prepared to prescribe Melatonin to aid sleep. To prevent abuse of this medication, we will not prescribe more than 21 tablets on one prescription. To purchase Melatonin, please complete an online consultation form that will be reviewed by one of our doctors.

What is Melatonin Used For?

Melatonin is prescribed to help people sleep. In the UK it is only licensed for insomnia.

How to take Melatonin

Melatonin is taken as one tablet 1 to 2 hours before bedtime and with food. Melatonin is licensed in the UK for up to 13 weeks but The Online Clinic will not prescribe it for this length of time. If you have been suffering from insomnia, we recommend that you see a doctor face to face.

Is Melatonin Effective?

Melatonin is licensed in the UK to treat insomnia so it has been through clinical tests to demonstrate efficacy and safety.

Does Melatonin have side Effects?

As with all medications, Melatonin can cause side effects but these are rare or uncommon. The principal side effects noted are joint stiffness, pain and increased risk of infection.

Reviewed by: Dr Loraine Haslam MBBS, DRCOG, DFSRH, LoC SDI, LoC IUT, MRCGP
GMC registration number: 4524038
Date: 30 October 2023
Next review: 29 October 2025
All UK registered doctors can have their registration checked on
The Medical Register at the GMC website.

Information Leaflet

Source and further information

Download Melatonin Patient Information Leaflet