Melatonin Dosage Guidelines

Secreted in the brain by the pineal gland, melatonin is a hormone. Its principal role is maintaining the body's circadian rhythm. A circadian rhythm is our internal clock that tells us when to fall asleep and when to wake up again. The production of melatonin in the body is stimulated by darkness, while light has the opposite effect. People take doses of melatonin for insomnia, jet lag and depression. Consult with your health care professional to decide what dosage is right for you.

Melatonin Dosage Guidelines for Children

The University of Maryland Medical Center says that the melatonin dosage guideline for children under 15 is "less than 0.3 mg/day." Evidence suggests that a dose of up to 10 mg is not likely to have many side effects. However, there seems to be a risk of seizures in this demographic in dosages of 1 to 5 mg. Keep a daily diary with your child to monitor the effects and share it with your doctor.

Melatonin Dosage Guidelines for Adult Insomnia

Take your dose of melatonin one hour before you go to bed. People have different sensitivities and tolerance levels for melatonin. Use the smallest dose that works for you. The University of Maryland Medical center recommends 3 mg. If this melatonin dosage does not produce the results you are looking for "after 3 days, try 5 to 6 mg one hour before bedtime. An effective dose should produce restful sleep with no daytime irritability or fatigue."

Melatonin Dosage Guidelines for Jet Lag

Leave jet lag behind with a dosage of melatonin. As with adult insomnia, use the least amount of melatonin that is effective. The guidelines presented by the University of Maryland Medical Center say, "0.5 to 5 mg of melatonin one hour before bedtime at final destination has been successful in several studies." Try a dose of melatonin before your next trip. It may also help you beat jet lag. Clinical use has shown some promise with this melatonin guideline, "1 to 5 mg one hour before bedtime for two days prior to your departure and for two to three days on arrival at final destination."

Melatonin Dosage Guidelines for Depression

Melatonin is a natural alternative to prescription drugs for those looking to alleviate their symptoms of depression. Guidelines for melatonin prescribe low doses because those who suffer from depression tend to be sensitive to melatonin. Take two doses, four hours apart, late in the afternoon. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends 0.125 mg as the dosage guideline.