Sleep Awareness Week® is annually designated in mid-March by the National Sleep Foundation to encourage the public to recognize their sleep as a crucial part of health and well-being. We are taking part in this observance by sharing information that may help you sleep better at night. Keep reading to learn more.

The sleep cycle is part of the body’s circadian rhythm, which includes your sleep-wake pattern over the course of a 24-hour day. A natural hormone known as melatonin plays an important role in the sleep cycle.

What is Melatonin?

Melatonin is a sleep hormone naturally produced by the body. Its production increases during nighttime, promoting healthy sleep and helping to initiate the body’s sleep-wake cycle. The hormone is also produced externally in laboratories and sold as dietary supplements such as pills, capsules, chewables, liquids, or patches.

Do Melatonin Supplements Improve Sleep?

Melatonin supplements may be useful in certain situations such as sleeping problems for both adults and children. Although melatonin can improve sleep in certain cases, it is not for everyone. Consult your doctor or health care provider about your overall health before taking or administering melatonin supplements. When using melatonin as a sleep aid, pay attention to the dosage and how it affects your quality of sleep.

Are Melatonin Supplements Safe?

Whether a melatonin dietary supplement can be considered safe depends on several factors such as manufacturing and interaction with medications a person takes. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate dietary supplements like products categorized as drugs. The FDA does not approve dietary supplements because manufacturers are not required to demonstrate that they are safe or effective before being allowed to sell them.

However, the FDA has the authority to act against any contaminated or misbranded dietary supplement product after it is on the market. Some supplement brands undergo testing by an independent, third-party organization to evaluate the quality of their products. They may receive a seal of approval to put on their product labels or website.

Buying Melatonin Supplements

Melatonin supplement brands with different formulations and dosages are available over the counter. You can choose from a selection of brand-name products at Carmichael’s Crowley Retail Pharmacy. Our highly trained staff are ready to assist you with making an informed purchase. If you have consulted your health care provider and are ready to purchase melatonin supplements, contact us to help you improve your sleep.