Who Should Not Take Melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone that is naturally produced in the body. It is responsible for regulating the sleep-wake cycle. known as the circadian rhythm. Levels of melatonin are highest at night. During the day, levels of melatonin are low.

Melatonin supplements are often used to treat people with insomnia and other sleep disorders (melatonin sleep gummies). The supplement can be taken orally in the form of tablets, capsules, or liquids. It can also be given as an injection into the body or as a patch placed on the skin.

While melatonin supplements are generally considered safe, there are some people who should not take them. This includes children, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions.

Pregnant women

Pregnant women should not take melatonin unless directed by a doctor. Some research suggests that taking melatonin during pregnancy could increase the risk of miscarriage.

Pregnant women should not take melatonin because there is not enough research to know if it is safe for pregnant women or their babies. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and are considering taking melatonin, discuss it with your doctor first.

People with medical conditions

People with liver disease, diabetes, bleeding disorders, or who are taking blood thinners should not take melatonin without speaking to a doctor first. This is because melatonin may interact with these conditions and medications.

People with epilepsy should also avoid taking melatonin because it can increase the frequency and severity of seizures. If you have epilepsy and are considering taking melatonin, discuss it with your doctor first.

Children

Melatonin supplements should not be given to children unless directed by a doctor. The long-term effects of taking melatonin are unknown.

Children under the age of 18 should not take melatonin because there is not enough research to know if it is safe for children. If you are considering giving melatonin to a child, discuss it with their doctor first.

People with Cancer

One group of people who should not take melatonin are those with cancer. Melatonin levels are increased in people with cancer and taking a supplement can cause even higher levels. High melatonin levels can interfere with chemotherapy and radiation treatments. If you have cancer, it is best to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, including melatonin.

People with Autoimmune Diseases

Another group of people who should not take melatonin are those with autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases are conditions in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. Melatonin has been shown to increase the activity of the immune system. Therefore, taking a supplement could make autoimmune diseases worse. If you have an autoimmune disease, it is best to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, including melatonin.

Conclusion

Melatonin supplements are generally safe for most people to take. However, there are some people who should not take them, including children, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions. If you have any questions about whether or not you should take a melatonin supplement, please speak to your doctor before doing so.