🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 159 (from laksa107)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa159.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/is-melatonin-safe\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/is-melatonin-safe\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/is-melatonin-safe","crawl_time":1772955885,"first_indexed_time":1677652773,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,ynhhs!www,\/articles\/is-melatonin-safe s443","src_root_hash":"8056017582372743959","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Is Melatonin Safe?","meta_descriptions":["Melatonin supplements designed to help people fall asleep may be more popular than ever but these over the counter sleep aids may actually do more harm than good."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Melatonin supplements designed to help people fall asleep may be more popular than ever but these over the counter sleep aids may actually do more harm than good. Overuse, underlying medical conditions and interactions with medications may cause unintended side effects. Here’s what you need to know before taking a melatonin supplement.\nHow does melatonin work?\nMelatonin is a hormone that occurs naturally in the body when it gets dark, signally that it is time to go to sleep. The melatonin available online and most pharmacies is typically a synthetic version. The FDA does not regulate it because it is a supplement and not a medication.\nNortheast Medical Group Sleep Center Medical Director\nStasia Wieber, MD\n, said she typically does not recommend melatonin to her patients and finds it is only helpful for specific sleep conditions such as jet lag, shift work sleep disorders and circadian rhythm disturbances.\n“It is useful in certain sleep disorders but if you’re having chronic problems sleeping you probably should speak to your healthcare provider because maybe there’s something underlying that’s causing you not to sleep well,” Dr. Wieber said.\nCommon reasons why patients have trouble sleeping include insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs and anxiety. To treat those conditions, Dr. Wieber said patients usually benefit from a multi-pronged approach that can include a mix of prescription medication and cognitive behavioral therapy.\nMelatonin side effects\nMelatonin supplements can also interact with common drugs such as some seizure medications, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers and Coumadin, a common blood thinner. In addition, pregnant people and those who are lactating should not take melatonin.\nEven for those who may benefit from melatonin, Dr. Wieber says be careful about taking too much. The appropriate dose should be only be between 0.3-1 milligrams for adults and it’s not intended for long-term use.\n“I often see people who say they’re taking 10 milligrams. That’s a huge dose of melatonin and they’re wondering why they’re groggy the next day or they’ve had severe nightmares,” Dr. Wieber said.\nOther common side effects include headaches, dizziness, and anxiety, agitation or depression can worsen.\nHow to fall asleep\nFor the average person\nhaving trouble sleeping\n, there are few things to try first before turning to an over the counter sleep aid. First, go to bed and wake up at the same time most days. Avoid caffeine in the afternoon, electronics right before bedtime and try to exercise throughout the week.\nIf you are not falling asleep after 20 minutes, go in a dimly lit room and write down the things that are bothering you and how you plan to deal with it the next day. Breathing exercises or meditation techniques are important tools that can also help troubled sleepers. If you want to try a sleep aid like a melatonin supplement, always talk with your doctor first.","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/is-melatonin-safe#main)\n\n[![Yale New Haven Health logo](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Logo\/YNHHS_hor_clr_484x127.ashx?h=127&iar=0&w=484&hash=11E8047061263B1C6342665F74BC888B)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/)\n\n[Find a Doctor](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-doctor)[Get Care Now](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/get-care-now)\n\n- Services\n  ### Services\n  #### Featured Specialties\n  - [Aging (Geriatrics)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/aging \"Aging (Geriatrics)\")\n  - [Cancer (Oncology)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Cancer \"Cancer (Oncology)\")\n  - [Children’s (Pediatrics)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/childrens-pediatrics \"Children’s (Pediatrics)\")\n  - [Digestive Disorders (Gastroenterology)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/digestive-disorders \"Digestive Disorders (Gastroenterology)\")\n  - [Heart & Vascular](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/heart \"Heart & Vascular\")\n  - [Home Healthcare](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/health-at-home)\n  - [Mental Health (Psychiatry)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Mental-Health \"Mental Health (Psychiatry)\")\n  - [Neurology & Neurosurgery](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/neurology-and-neurosurgery \"Neurology & Neurosurgery\")\n  - [Orthopedics](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/orthopedics \"Orthopedics\")\n  - [Primary Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/primary-care \"Primary Care\")\n  - [Transplantation](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Transplantation \"Transplantation\")\n  - [Trauma & Burn](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/trauma-and-burn \"Trauma & Burn\")\n  - [Women’s Health](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Womens-Health \"Women’s Health\")\n  \n  [View All Services](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care \"View All Services\")\n  \n  #### More Care\n  - [COVID-19 Resources](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/covid-19 \"COVID-19 Vaccine\")\n  - [For Medical Professionals](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/medical-professionals \"For Medical Professionals\")\n  - [Get Care Now](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/get-care-now)\n  - [Pharmacy](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/pharmacy)\n  - [Urgent Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/urgent-care \"Urgent Care\")\n- Locations\n  ### Locations\n  #### Location Type\n  - [Ambulatory \/ Outpatient Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location#sort=relevancy&numberOfResults=25&f:facilitytype=[Outpatient%20Medical%20Centers])\n  - [Blood Draw](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location#f:facilitytype=[Blood%20Draw])\n  - [Cancer (Oncology)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location#f:facilitytype=[Cancer%20\\(Oncology\\)])\n  - [Occupational Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location#f:facilitytype=[Occupational%20Care])\n  - [Primary Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location#f:facilitytype=[Primary%20Care])\n  - [Radiology](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location#f:facilitytype=[Radiology])\n  - [Urgent Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/urgent-care)\n  \n  [View All Our Locations](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location)\n  \n  #### Hospitals and Multispecialty Locations\n  - [Bridgeport Hospital](https:\/\/www.bridgeporthospital.org\/ \"Bridgeport Hospital\")\n  - [Greenwich Hospital](https:\/\/www.greenwichhospital.org\/ \"Greenwich Hospital\")\n  - [Lawrence + Memorial Hospital](https:\/\/www.lmhospital.org\/)\n  - [Northeast Medical Group](https:\/\/www.northeastmedicalgroup.org\/find-a-doctor \"Northeast Medical Group\")\n  - [Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/smilow \"Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven\")\n  - [Westerly Hospital](https:\/\/www.westerlyhospital.org\/ \"Westerly Hospital\")\n  - [Yale Medicine](https:\/\/www.yalemedicine.org\/ \"Yale Medicine\")\n  - [Yale New Haven Children's Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/childrens-hospital)\n  - [Yale New Haven Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/ \"Yale New Haven Hospital\")\n  - [Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/psychiatric \"Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital\")\n- Patients & Visitors\n  ### Patients & Visitors\n  #### Patients\n  - [Billing & Insurance](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/billing-insurance \"<br\/> Billing & Insurance\")\n  - [Classes & Events](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/events \"Classes & Events\")\n  - [Financial Assistance](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/billing-insurance\/Financial-assistance \"Financial Assistance\")\n  - [Get Care Now](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/get-care-now)\n  - [Language Services](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/language-services)\n  - [News and Media](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media)\n  - [No Surprises Act](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Patient-Rights-and-Responsibilities\/no-surprise-billing)\n  - [Patient Guidelines](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patients-visitors\/preparing\/visitor-policy \"Patient Guidelines\")\n  - [Patient Rights and Responsibilities](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Patient-Rights-and-Responsibilities \"Patient Rights and Responsibilities\")\n  - [Pay Your Bill](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/MyChart-PRD\/ \"Pay Your Bill\")\n  \n  [View All Patient & Visitor Information](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patients-visitors)\n  \n  #### Patient Tools\n  - [Make An Appointment](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/make-an-appointment \"Make An Appointment\")\n  - [Prescription Refills](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/ \"Prescription Refills\")\n  - [Request Medical Records](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/online-tools\/Request-Medical-Records \"Request Medical Records\")\n  - [Thank Your Caregiver - ThinkThanks Employee Spotlight](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/employee-spotlight)\n\nExplore Our Health System\n\n- [Yale New Haven Health](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/)\n- [Bridgeport Hospital](https:\/\/www.bridgeporthospital.org\/)\n- [Yale New Haven Children's Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/childrens-hospital)\n- [Greenwich Hospital](https:\/\/www.greenwichhospital.org\/)\n- [Lawrence + Memorial Hospital](https:\/\/www.lmhospital.org\/)\n- [Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/psychiatric)\n- [Smilow Cancer Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/smilow)\n- [Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/urgent-care)\n- [Westerly Hospital](https:\/\/www.westerlyhospital.org\/)\n- [Yale New Haven Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/)\n- [Clinical Affiliates](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/clinical-affiliates)\n- [Northeast Medical Group](https:\/\/www.northeastmedicalgroup.org\/)\n\n- [Pay a Bill](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/MyChart-PRD\/Billing\/Summary)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/contact \"Contact Us\")\n- [About](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/about \"About\")\n- [News & Knowledge](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog \"News & Knowledge\")\n- [Medical Professionals](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/providers \"Medical Professionals\")\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/careers \"Find a Hospital Near Me\")\n\n[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/is-melatonin-safe#main)\n\n[Explore Our Health System]()\n\n[Yale New Haven Health](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/) [Bridgeport Hospital](https:\/\/www.bridgeporthospital.org\/) [Yale New Haven Children's Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/childrens-hospital) [Greenwich Hospital](https:\/\/www.greenwichhospital.org\/) [Lawrence + Memorial Hospital](https:\/\/www.lmhospital.org\/) [Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/psychiatric) [Smilow Cancer Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/smilow) [Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/urgent-care) [Westerly Hospital](https:\/\/www.westerlyhospital.org\/) [Yale New Haven Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/) [Clinical Affiliates](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/clinical-affiliates) [Northeast Medical Group](https:\/\/www.northeastmedicalgroup.org\/)\n\n[Pay a Bill](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/MyChart-PRD\/Billing\/Summary)[Contact Us](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/contact \"Contact Us\")[About](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/about \"About\")[News & Knowledge](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog \"News & Knowledge\")[Medical Professionals](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/providers \"Medical Professionals\")[Careers](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/careers \"Find a Hospital Near Me\")\n\n[![Yale New Haven Health logo](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Logo\/YNHHS_hor_clr_484x127.ashx?h=127&iar=0&w=484&hash=11E8047061263B1C6342665F74BC888B)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/)\n\n- [Find a Doctor](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-doctor)\n- [Get Care Now](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/get-care-now)\n- Services\n  ### Featured Specialties\n  - [Aging (Geriatrics)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/aging \"Aging (Geriatrics)\")\n  - [Cancer (Oncology)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Cancer \"Cancer (Oncology)\")\n  - [Children’s (Pediatrics)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/childrens-pediatrics \"Children’s (Pediatrics)\")\n  - [Digestive Disorders (Gastroenterology)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/digestive-disorders \"Digestive Disorders (Gastroenterology)\")\n  - [Heart & Vascular](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/heart \"Heart & Vascular\")\n  - [Home Healthcare](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/health-at-home)\n  \n  - [Mental Health (Psychiatry)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Mental-Health \"Mental Health (Psychiatry)\")\n  - [Neurology & Neurosurgery](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/neurology-and-neurosurgery \"Neurology & Neurosurgery\")\n  - [Orthopedics](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/orthopedics \"Orthopedics\")\n  - [Primary Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/primary-care \"Primary Care\")\n  - [Transplantation](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Transplantation \"Transplantation\")\n  - [Trauma & Burn](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/trauma-and-burn \"Trauma & Burn\")\n  \n  [View All Services](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care \"View All Services\")\n  \n  ### More Care\n  - [COVID-19 Resources](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/covid-19 \"COVID-19 Vaccine\")\n  - [For Medical Professionals](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/medical-professionals \"For Medical Professionals\")\n  - [Get Care Now](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/get-care-now)\n  - [Pharmacy](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/pharmacy)\n  - [Urgent Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/urgent-care \"Urgent Care\")\n  \n  close\n- Locations\n  ### Location Type\n  - [Ambulatory \/ Outpatient Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location#sort=relevancy&numberOfResults=25&f:facilitytype=[Outpatient%20Medical%20Centers])\n  - [Blood Draw](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location#f:facilitytype=[Blood%20Draw])\n  - [Cancer (Oncology)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location#f:facilitytype=[Cancer%20\\(Oncology\\)])\n  - [Occupational Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location#f:facilitytype=[Occupational%20Care])\n  - [Primary Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location#f:facilitytype=[Primary%20Care])\n  - [Radiology](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location#f:facilitytype=[Radiology])\n  - [Urgent Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/urgent-care)\n  \n  [View All Our Locations](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location)\n  \n  ### Hospitals and Multispecialty Locations\n  - [Bridgeport Hospital](https:\/\/www.bridgeporthospital.org\/ \"Bridgeport Hospital\")\n  - [Greenwich Hospital](https:\/\/www.greenwichhospital.org\/ \"Greenwich Hospital\")\n  - [Lawrence + Memorial Hospital](https:\/\/www.lmhospital.org\/)\n  - [Northeast Medical Group](https:\/\/www.northeastmedicalgroup.org\/find-a-doctor \"Northeast Medical Group\")\n  - [Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/smilow \"Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven\")\n  \n  - [Westerly Hospital](https:\/\/www.westerlyhospital.org\/ \"Westerly Hospital\")\n  - [Yale Medicine](https:\/\/www.yalemedicine.org\/ \"Yale Medicine\")\n  - [Yale New Haven Children's Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/childrens-hospital)\n  - [Yale New Haven Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/ \"Yale New Haven Hospital\")\n  - [Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/psychiatric \"Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital\")\n  \n  close\n- Patients & Visitors\n  ### Patients\n  - [Billing & Insurance](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/billing-insurance \"<br\/> Billing & Insurance\")\n  - [Classes & Events](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/events \"Classes & Events\")\n  - [Financial Assistance](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/billing-insurance\/Financial-assistance \"Financial Assistance\")\n  - [Get Care Now](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/get-care-now)\n  - [Language Services](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/language-services)\n  \n  - [News and Media](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media)\n  - [No Surprises Act](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Patient-Rights-and-Responsibilities\/no-surprise-billing)\n  - [Patient Guidelines](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patients-visitors\/preparing\/visitor-policy \"Patient Guidelines\")\n  - [Patient Rights and Responsibilities](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Patient-Rights-and-Responsibilities \"Patient Rights and Responsibilities\")\n  - [Pay Your Bill](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/MyChart-PRD\/ \"Pay Your Bill\")\n  \n  [View All Patient & Visitor Information](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patients-visitors)\n  \n  ### Patient Tools\n  - [Make An Appointment](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/make-an-appointment \"Make An Appointment\")\n  - [Prescription Refills](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/ \"Prescription Refills\")\n  - [Request Medical Records](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/online-tools\/Request-Medical-Records \"Request Medical Records\")\n  - [Thank Your Caregiver - ThinkThanks Employee Spotlight](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/employee-spotlight)\n  \n  close\n\n[![My chart icon, a folder with a heart in the middle.](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Icons\/Header-Icons\/icon-mychart-header.ashx?iar=0&hash=65F8CEB084B4838CD046EF032FAA6222) MyChart](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/MyChart-PRD\/Authentication\/Login)\n\nSearch ![Search icon magnifying glass](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Icons\/Header-Icons\/icon-search.ashx?iar=0&hash=9B497E70A197DB7B978628BC7F382EB4) ![close search](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Icons\/Header-Icons\/close-search.ashx?iar=0&hash=ADF7FAD1D54E8EA37EB30B6DB3D09526)\n\n[![Yale New Haven Health logo](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Logo\/YNHHS_hor_clr_484x127.ashx?h=127&iar=0&w=484&hash=11E8047061263B1C6342665F74BC888B)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/)  ![Search icon magnifying glass](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Icons\/Header-Icons\/icon-search.ashx?iar=0&hash=9B497E70A197DB7B978628BC7F382EB4)\n\n### Popular Services\n- [Gastroenterology](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/digestive-disorders)\n- [Neurology & Neurosurgery](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/neurology-and-neurosurgery)\n- [Primary Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/primary-care)\n\n[View All Services](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care)\n\n### Popular Locations\n- [North Haven Medical Center](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/locations\/north-haven-6-devine-street)\n- [Park Avenue Medical Center](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/locations\/trumbull-5520-park-avenue-medical-center)\n- [Yale New Haven Hospital - York Street Campus](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/locations\/new-haven-20-york-street)\n\n[View All Locations](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location)\n\n#### Frequent Searches\n- [Medical Records](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/online-tools\/Request-Medical-Records)\n- [MyChart](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/MyChart-PRD\/)\n- [Primary Care Physician](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/primary-care)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/contrast-icon.svg)\n\nContrast\n\nOff\n\nOn\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/contact-icon.svg) Contact](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/contact)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/share-icon.svg)\n\nShare\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/donate-icon.svg) Donate](https:\/\/www.givetoynhh.org\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/mychar-icon.svg) MyChart](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/MyChart-PRD\/Authentication\/Login)\n\nHelp\n\n![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/contrast-icon.svg)\n\nContrast\n\nOff\n\nOn\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/contact-icon.svg) Contact](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/contact)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/share-icon.svg)\n\nShare\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/donate-icon.svg) Donate](https:\/\/www.givetoynhh.org\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/mychar-icon.svg) MyChart](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/MyChart-PRD\/Authentication\/Login)\n\n#### Explore this section\n- - [Toddler who “lived” in the hospital gets a new heart](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/adam-batista-transplant)\n  - [Are You Drinking Too Much?](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/are-you-drinking-too-much)\n  - [YNHHS Works To Eliminate Biased Tests and Procedures That Can Lead to Poor Outcomes](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/biased-tests-and-procedures)\n  - [Colorectal Cancer: What You Need to Know](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/colorectal-cancer)\n  - [Should You Go to the Emergency Room or Urgent Care?](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/emergency-or-urgent-care)\n  - [Flu Prevention for Seniors and When to Get the Flu Shot](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/flu-prevention-for-seniors)\n  - [How To Keep Kids Safe From Common Household Toxins](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/household-toxins)\n  - [How to Boost Your Immune System](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/how-to-boost-your-immune-system)\n  - [Is Melatonin Safe?](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/is-melatonin-safe)\n  - [How the Polio Vaccine You Got as a Kid Protects You Now](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/polio-vaccine-protection)\n  - [Preparing for Pregnancy? Here Are Some Tips on Pre Pregnancy Diet, Genetic Tests and Other Checklist Items](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/pre-pregnancy-prep-guide)\n  - [Pulmonary Function Testing Helps Diagnose Lung Conditions](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/pulmonary-function-testing)\n  - [New Year's Resolutions For Your Health](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/resolutions-for-your-health)\n  - [The Case of the Missing Corpus Callosum](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/the-case-of-the-missing-corpus-callosum)\n  - [Where To Go When You Get Sick During the Triple-demic](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/where-to-go-when-you-get-sick)\n\n- [Back to Blog](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog)\n\nWellness\n\n# Is Melatonin Safe?\nBy Anna Gunther\n\nPublished December 06, 2022\n\n![melatonin side effects](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Articles\/2022\/melatonin-side-effects.ashx?h=800&iar=0&w=1200&hash=506FBD9D7963609A6E4D14DE4286641A)\n\nMelatonin supplements designed to help people fall asleep may be more popular than ever but these over the counter sleep aids may actually do more harm than good. Overuse, underlying medical conditions and interactions with medications may cause unintended side effects. Here’s what you need to know before taking a melatonin supplement.\n\n## How does melatonin work?\nMelatonin is a hormone that occurs naturally in the body when it gets dark, signally that it is time to go to sleep. The melatonin available online and most pharmacies is typically a synthetic version. The FDA does not regulate it because it is a supplement and not a medication.\n\nNortheast Medical Group Sleep Center Medical Director [Stasia Wieber, MD](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/physicians\/stasia-wieber), said she typically does not recommend melatonin to her patients and finds it is only helpful for specific sleep conditions such as jet lag, shift work sleep disorders and circadian rhythm disturbances.\n\n“It is useful in certain sleep disorders but if you’re having chronic problems sleeping you probably should speak to your healthcare provider because maybe there’s something underlying that’s causing you not to sleep well,” Dr. Wieber said.\n\nCommon reasons why patients have trouble sleeping include insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs and anxiety. To treat those conditions, Dr. Wieber said patients usually benefit from a multi-pronged approach that can include a mix of prescription medication and cognitive behavioral therapy.\n\n## Melatonin side effects\nMelatonin supplements can also interact with common drugs such as some seizure medications, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers and Coumadin, a common blood thinner. In addition, pregnant people and those who are lactating should not take melatonin.\n\nEven for those who may benefit from melatonin, Dr. Wieber says be careful about taking too much. The appropriate dose should be only be between 0.3-1 milligrams for adults and it’s not intended for long-term use.\n\n“I often see people who say they’re taking 10 milligrams. That’s a huge dose of melatonin and they’re wondering why they’re groggy the next day or they’ve had severe nightmares,” Dr. Wieber said.\n\nOther common side effects include headaches, dizziness, and anxiety, agitation or depression can worsen.\n\n## How to fall asleep\nFor the average person [having trouble sleeping](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/tips-for-falling-back-asleep-after-waking-up), there are few things to try first before turning to an over the counter sleep aid. First, go to bed and wake up at the same time most days. Avoid caffeine in the afternoon, electronics right before bedtime and try to exercise throughout the week.\n\nIf you are not falling asleep after 20 minutes, go in a dimly lit room and write down the things that are bothering you and how you plan to deal with it the next day. Breathing exercises or meditation techniques are important tools that can also help troubled sleepers. If you want to try a sleep aid like a melatonin supplement, always talk with your doctor first.\n\n#### Blog Topics\n- [Community](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Community])\n- [Families](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Families])\n- [Innovation](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Innovation])\n- [Op-Ed](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Op-Ed])\n- [Patient Stories](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Patient%20Stories])\n- [Prevention](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Prevention])\n- [Recipes](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Recipes])\n- [Treatments](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Treatments])\n- [Wellness](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Wellness])\n\n#### Experts\n- [Stasia Wieber, MD](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/physicians\/stasia-wieber)\n\n#### Related Services\n- [Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine - Northeast Medical Group](https:\/\/www.northeastmedicalgroup.org\/services\/respiratory-services-and-sleep-medicine)\n\n## Related Articles\n[![a woman scrolling on her phone late at night](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Articles\/2026\/doomscroll.ashx) Wellness How To Stop Doomscrolling](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/how-to-stop-doomscrolling)\n\n[![Woman takes GLP-1 for weight loss](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Articles\/2026\/GLP1.ashx) Treatments Should You Suddenly Stop Taking GLP-1s? Our Experts Weigh In](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/should-you-suddenly-stop-taking-glp1s)\n\n[![Depressed woman experiencing seasonal affective disorder](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Articles\/2026\/seasonal-affective-disorder.ashx) Treatments Feeling SAD? How To Beat the Winter Blues](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/seasonal-affective-disorder)\n\n[![Yale New Haven Health logo](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Logo\/YNHHS\/logoynhh2x.ashx?mh=75&mw=128&hash=D610B41CB188540CD323C7D0702581D7)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/)\n\n[Bridgeport Hospital](https:\/\/www.bridgeporthospital.org\/) [Yale New Haven Children's Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/childrens-hospital) [Greenwich Hospital](https:\/\/www.greenwichhospital.org\/) [Lawrence + Memorial Hospital](https:\/\/www.lmhospital.org\/) [Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/psychiatric) [Smilow Cancer Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/smilow) [Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/urgent-care) [Westerly Hospital](https:\/\/www.westerlyhospital.org\/) [Yale New Haven Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/) [Clinical Affiliates](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/clinical-affiliates) [Northeast Medical Group](https:\/\/www.northeastmedicalgroup.org\/)\n\nWith the greatest of care.\n***\n\nFor Patients\n\n[find a location](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location)[Find a Doctor or Specialist](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-doctor \"Find a doctor or specialist\")[Find a job](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/careers \"Find a job\")[Log into MyChart](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/)[Pay My Bill](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/MyChart-PRD\/)[View news & events](\"View news & events\")[Become a vendor](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/vendors \"Become a vendor\")\n\nFind Information For\n\n[Providers](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/providers \"Providers\")[Job Seekers](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/careers \"Job Seekers\")[Employees](http:\/\/portal.ynhh.org\/)[giving](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/giving)[Media](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media \"Media\")[Vendors](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/vendors \"Vendors\")[Manage Cookie Preferences](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/is-melatonin-safe)\n\nContact Us\n\nYale New Haven Health System  \n 789 Howard Avenue  \n New Haven, CT 06519\n\n© Copyright 2026 Yale New Haven Health\n\n[Policies](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/policies \"Policies\")[For Employees](http:\/\/portal.ynhh.org\/ \"For Employees\")[Non-discrimination](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/policies#nond \"For Employees\")[Contact Us](\"Contact Us\")","attrs_readable_markdown":"Melatonin supplements designed to help people fall asleep may be more popular than ever but these over the counter sleep aids may actually do more harm than good. Overuse, underlying medical conditions and interactions with medications may cause unintended side effects. Here’s what you need to know before taking a melatonin supplement.\n\n## How does melatonin work?\nMelatonin is a hormone that occurs naturally in the body when it gets dark, signally that it is time to go to sleep. The melatonin available online and most pharmacies is typically a synthetic version. The FDA does not regulate it because it is a supplement and not a medication.\n\nNortheast Medical Group Sleep Center Medical Director [Stasia Wieber, MD](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/physicians\/stasia-wieber), said she typically does not recommend melatonin to her patients and finds it is only helpful for specific sleep conditions such as jet lag, shift work sleep disorders and circadian rhythm disturbances.\n\n“It is useful in certain sleep disorders but if you’re having chronic problems sleeping you probably should speak to your healthcare provider because maybe there’s something underlying that’s causing you not to sleep well,” Dr. Wieber said.\n\nCommon reasons why patients have trouble sleeping include insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs and anxiety. To treat those conditions, Dr. Wieber said patients usually benefit from a multi-pronged approach that can include a mix of prescription medication and cognitive behavioral therapy.\n\n## Melatonin side effects\nMelatonin supplements can also interact with common drugs such as some seizure medications, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers and Coumadin, a common blood thinner. In addition, pregnant people and those who are lactating should not take melatonin.\n\nEven for those who may benefit from melatonin, Dr. Wieber says be careful about taking too much. The appropriate dose should be only be between 0.3-1 milligrams for adults and it’s not intended for long-term use.\n\n“I often see people who say they’re taking 10 milligrams. That’s a huge dose of melatonin and they’re wondering why they’re groggy the next day or they’ve had severe nightmares,” Dr. Wieber said.\n\nOther common side effects include headaches, dizziness, and anxiety, agitation or depression can worsen.\n\n## How to fall asleep\nFor the average person [having trouble sleeping](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/tips-for-falling-back-asleep-after-waking-up), there are few things to try first before turning to an over the counter sleep aid. First, go to bed and wake up at the same time most days. Avoid caffeine in the afternoon, electronics right before bedtime and try to exercise throughout the week.\n\nIf you are not falling asleep after 20 minutes, go in a dimly lit room and write down the things that are bothering you and how you plan to deal with it the next day. Breathing exercises or meditation techniques are important tools that can also help troubled sleepers. If you want to try a sleep aid like a melatonin supplement, always talk with your doctor first.","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Melatonin supplements designed to help people fall asleep may be more popular than ever but these over the counter sleep aids may actually do more harm than good. Overuse, underlying medical conditions and interactions with medications may cause unintended side effects. Here’s what you need to know before taking a melatonin supplement. How does melatonin work? Melatonin is a hormone that occurs naturally in the body when it gets dark, signally that it is time to go to sleep. The melatonin available online and most pharmacies is typically a synthetic version. The FDA does not regulate it because it is a supplement and not a medication. Northeast Medical Group Sleep Center Medical Director Stasia Wieber, MD , said she typically does not recommend melatonin to her patients and finds it is only helpful for specific sleep conditions such as jet lag, shift work sleep disorders and circadian rhythm disturbances. “It is useful in certain sleep disorders but if you’re having chronic problems sleeping you probably should speak to your healthcare provider because maybe there’s something underlying that’s causing you not to sleep well,” Dr. Wieber said. Common reasons why patients have trouble sleeping include insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs and anxiety. To treat those conditions, Dr. Wieber said patients usually benefit from a multi-pronged approach that can include a mix of prescription medication and cognitive behavioral therapy. Melatonin side effects Melatonin supplements can also interact with common drugs such as some seizure medications, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers and Coumadin, a common blood thinner. In addition, pregnant people and those who are lactating should not take melatonin. Even for those who may benefit from melatonin, Dr. Wieber says be careful about taking too much. The appropriate dose should be only be between 0.3-1 milligrams for adults and it’s not intended for long-term use. “I often see people who say they’re taking 10 milligrams. That’s a huge dose of melatonin and they’re wondering why they’re groggy the next day or they’ve had severe nightmares,” Dr. Wieber said. Other common side effects include headaches, dizziness, and anxiety, agitation or depression can worsen. How to fall asleep For the average person having trouble sleeping , there are few things to try first before turning to an over the counter sleep aid. First, go to bed and wake up at the same time most days. Avoid caffeine in the afternoon, electronics right before bedtime and try to exercise throughout the week. If you are not falling asleep after 20 minutes, go in a dimly lit room and write down the things that are bothering you and how you plan to deal with it the next day. Breathing exercises or meditation techniques are important tools that can also help troubled sleepers. If you want to try a sleep aid like a melatonin supplement, always talk with your doctor first.
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Here Are Some Tips on Pre Pregnancy Diet, Genetic Tests and Other Checklist Items](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/pre-pregnancy-prep-guide) - [Pulmonary Function Testing Helps Diagnose Lung Conditions](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/pulmonary-function-testing) - [New Year's Resolutions For Your Health](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/resolutions-for-your-health) - [The Case of the Missing Corpus Callosum](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/the-case-of-the-missing-corpus-callosum) - [Where To Go When You Get Sick During the Triple-demic](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/where-to-go-when-you-get-sick) - [Back to Blog](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog) Wellness # Is Melatonin Safe? By Anna Gunther Published December 06, 2022 ![melatonin side effects](https://www.ynhhs.org/-/media/Images/Articles/2022/melatonin-side-effects.ashx?h=800&iar=0&w=1200&hash=506FBD9D7963609A6E4D14DE4286641A) Melatonin supplements designed to help people fall asleep may be more popular than ever but these over the counter sleep aids may actually do more harm than good. Overuse, underlying medical conditions and interactions with medications may cause unintended side effects. Here’s what you need to know before taking a melatonin supplement. ## How does melatonin work? Melatonin is a hormone that occurs naturally in the body when it gets dark, signally that it is time to go to sleep. The melatonin available online and most pharmacies is typically a synthetic version. The FDA does not regulate it because it is a supplement and not a medication. Northeast Medical Group Sleep Center Medical Director [Stasia Wieber, MD](https://www.ynhhs.org/physicians/stasia-wieber), said she typically does not recommend melatonin to her patients and finds it is only helpful for specific sleep conditions such as jet lag, shift work sleep disorders and circadian rhythm disturbances. “It is useful in certain sleep disorders but if you’re having chronic problems sleeping you probably should speak to your healthcare provider because maybe there’s something underlying that’s causing you not to sleep well,” Dr. Wieber said. Common reasons why patients have trouble sleeping include insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs and anxiety. To treat those conditions, Dr. Wieber said patients usually benefit from a multi-pronged approach that can include a mix of prescription medication and cognitive behavioral therapy. ## Melatonin side effects Melatonin supplements can also interact with common drugs such as some seizure medications, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers and Coumadin, a common blood thinner. In addition, pregnant people and those who are lactating should not take melatonin. Even for those who may benefit from melatonin, Dr. Wieber says be careful about taking too much. The appropriate dose should be only be between 0.3-1 milligrams for adults and it’s not intended for long-term use. “I often see people who say they’re taking 10 milligrams. That’s a huge dose of melatonin and they’re wondering why they’re groggy the next day or they’ve had severe nightmares,” Dr. Wieber said. Other common side effects include headaches, dizziness, and anxiety, agitation or depression can worsen. ## How to fall asleep For the average person [having trouble sleeping](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/tips-for-falling-back-asleep-after-waking-up), there are few things to try first before turning to an over the counter sleep aid. First, go to bed and wake up at the same time most days. Avoid caffeine in the afternoon, electronics right before bedtime and try to exercise throughout the week. If you are not falling asleep after 20 minutes, go in a dimly lit room and write down the things that are bothering you and how you plan to deal with it the next day. Breathing exercises or meditation techniques are important tools that can also help troubled sleepers. If you want to try a sleep aid like a melatonin supplement, always talk with your doctor first. #### Blog Topics - [Community](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Community]) - [Families](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Families]) - [Innovation](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Innovation]) - [Op-Ed](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Op-Ed]) - [Patient Stories](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Patient%20Stories]) - [Prevention](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Prevention]) - [Recipes](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Recipes]) - [Treatments](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Treatments]) - [Wellness](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Wellness]) #### Experts - [Stasia Wieber, MD](https://www.ynhhs.org/physicians/stasia-wieber) #### Related Services - [Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine - Northeast Medical Group](https://www.northeastmedicalgroup.org/services/respiratory-services-and-sleep-medicine) ## Related Articles [![a woman scrolling on her phone late at night](https://www.ynhhs.org/-/media/Images/Articles/2026/doomscroll.ashx) Wellness How To Stop Doomscrolling](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/how-to-stop-doomscrolling) [![Woman takes GLP-1 for weight loss](https://www.ynhhs.org/-/media/Images/Articles/2026/GLP1.ashx) Treatments Should You Suddenly Stop Taking GLP-1s? 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Readable Markdown	Melatonin supplements designed to help people fall asleep may be more popular than ever but these over the counter sleep aids may actually do more harm than good. Overuse, underlying medical conditions and interactions with medications may cause unintended side effects. Here’s what you need to know before taking a melatonin supplement. ## How does melatonin work? Melatonin is a hormone that occurs naturally in the body when it gets dark, signally that it is time to go to sleep. The melatonin available online and most pharmacies is typically a synthetic version. The FDA does not regulate it because it is a supplement and not a medication. Northeast Medical Group Sleep Center Medical Director [Stasia Wieber, MD](https://www.ynhhs.org/physicians/stasia-wieber), said she typically does not recommend melatonin to her patients and finds it is only helpful for specific sleep conditions such as jet lag, shift work sleep disorders and circadian rhythm disturbances. “It is useful in certain sleep disorders but if you’re having chronic problems sleeping you probably should speak to your healthcare provider because maybe there’s something underlying that’s causing you not to sleep well,” Dr. Wieber said. Common reasons why patients have trouble sleeping include insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs and anxiety. To treat those conditions, Dr. Wieber said patients usually benefit from a multi-pronged approach that can include a mix of prescription medication and cognitive behavioral therapy. ## Melatonin side effects Melatonin supplements can also interact with common drugs such as some seizure medications, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers and Coumadin, a common blood thinner. In addition, pregnant people and those who are lactating should not take melatonin. Even for those who may benefit from melatonin, Dr. Wieber says be careful about taking too much. The appropriate dose should be only be between 0.3-1 milligrams for adults and it’s not intended for long-term use. “I often see people who say they’re taking 10 milligrams. That’s a huge dose of melatonin and they’re wondering why they’re groggy the next day or they’ve had severe nightmares,” Dr. Wieber said. Other common side effects include headaches, dizziness, and anxiety, agitation or depression can worsen. ## How to fall asleep For the average person [having trouble sleeping](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/tips-for-falling-back-asleep-after-waking-up), there are few things to try first before turning to an over the counter sleep aid. First, go to bed and wake up at the same time most days. Avoid caffeine in the afternoon, electronics right before bedtime and try to exercise throughout the week. If you are not falling asleep after 20 minutes, go in a dimly lit room and write down the things that are bothering you and how you plan to deal with it the next day. Breathing exercises or meditation techniques are important tools that can also help troubled sleepers. If you want to try a sleep aid like a melatonin supplement, always talk with your doctor first.
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