Yes
Melatonin is “a naturally occurring hormone, produced by the brain, which signals that it is time to sleep”, says Professor Guy Leschziner, a consultant neurologist specialising in sleep disorders at Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospitals. “As such it is intrinsically different to sedatives, which suppress the central nervous system and slow brain activity, and can be associated with memory issues. It is generally safe and non-addictive.” It’s usually sold as tablets or in gummy form, though regulation of it varies: in the UK and Denmark, for example, it is prescription-only because it’s classified as a medicine rather than a supplement. In countries such as the US, Spain and France it is available over the counter.
Treating it like a knockout pill won’t work
Dr Harpal Bains, The Harpal Clinic
Many people find melatonin helps them “fall asleep more quickly, and improves overall sleep quality”, says Dr Federica Amati, head nutritionist at Zoe and nutrition topic lead at Imperial College London School of Medicine. “It’s especially effective for short-term insomnia and disrupted sleep patterns such as those caused by shift work or long-haul travel.”
