What is the total daily allotment of melatonin for a human in a 24hr period?

by CINDY MCMILLI
(WICHITA, KS, USA)

I take a total of Melatonin 15mg about 60 minutes prior to going to sleep. I tried the analogue* of Melatonin, Rozerem, but it was just not effective and I could not sleep at all. Physician ok's the 15mg of Melatonin. Thanks in advance for your knowledgeable answer.

*analogue: a chemistry term meaning one of a group of chemical compounds similar in structure but different in respect to elemental composition. Rozerem is a drug based on the properties of melatonin.

Dear Cindy,

Interesting question! Melatonin is actually a hormone that our bodies make that helps regulate sleep among other functions. (A hormone is a chemical substance produced in the body that controls and regulates the activity of certain cells or organs.)

The amount of melatonin we produce is determined by how dark or light our surroundings are. There isn't a specific amount that every body produces, but young and middle-aged adults usually produce about 5 to 25 micrograms of melatonin per night according to http://www.melatoninfaq.com/.

15 milligrams (the amount you say you are taking) is equivalent to 15,000 micrograms.

Unfortunately, sleep difficulties are rarely solved by just taking a pill, whether a drug or a more natural solution such as a melatonin supplement.

Good, restful sleep depends utterly on giving the body good nutrition including water, a bit of physical activity and handling stress effectively.

Have a look at this article on how to sleep better for more information, myths and tips about sleep!

Cheers,
BB

Get practical insights on improving your own health and energy... Subscribe to our monthly health and wellness newsletter here.