Get the Facts with Chula Pharmacists: Dietary Supplements Should Be Free of Melatonin

    Insomnia is a common issue affecting many individuals, with causes ranging from stress and shift work to aging or underlying medical conditions. Persistent sleeplessness can create a cycle of exhaustion, impairing nighttime rest, daytime focus, and overall productivity. Seeking solutions, many turn to medications or supplements to improve their sleep.

    In Thailand, accessing sleeping pills is regulated. They are only available through a doctor’s prescription at hospitals, not at general drugstores. As a workaround, some resort to antihistamines with drowsiness as a side effect. However, using antihistamines as a substitute for sleeping pills is not advisable, as they can cause side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and difficulty urinating. People with certain conditions, like glaucoma or an enlarged prostate, may face serious risks. Long-term use of first-generation antihistamines has also been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

    In recent years, dietary supplements claiming to promote better sleep have gained popularity. While some may provide mild benefits, caution is essential. Consumers should be skeptical of overly positive marketing on social media and ensure that supplements come from trustworthy sources, such as licensed pharmacies or reputable sellers.

The Concern with Melatonin in Supplements

    Recent reports have highlighted the presence of **melatonin** in certain gummies marketed as dietary supplements. In Thailand, melatonin is classified as a **drug**, requiring strict production standards and supervision by doctors and pharmacists. Unlike in some countries where melatonin is treated as a dietary supplement with less stringent controls, Thailand mandates its use under medical supervision.

    Melatonin, while generally safe, can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, antiplatelet drugs, diabetes medications, blood pressure medications, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and immunosuppressants. These interactions can cause adverse effects, particularly in individuals with underlying health conditions.

Safe Sleep Solutions

    Addressing insomnia requires understanding its root causes. Some individuals have trouble falling asleep but sleep through the night once they do, while others may wake up too early or experience fragmented sleep. Each scenario may require a different treatment approach, and not all solutions involve medication.

    If sleep difficulties are significantly impacting your life, consult a doctor to identify the appropriate treatment for your specific situation. This ensures that any prescribed medication aligns with your current health conditions and ongoing treatments.

    Takeaway: Be cautious with dietary supplements marketed for sleep improvement. In Thailand, melatonin is regulated as a drug, and its inclusion in supplements may pose risks. Seek professional guidance to address sleep issues safely and effectively.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nattada Areepiam and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bodin Tiwasuwan

Faculty of Pharmacy Chulalongkorn University