Can You Overdose on Melatonin?
Medically reviewed by Andre Stone | MD, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine on August 25th, 2026.
While a fatal melatonin overdose is extremely unlikely, taking too much can cause significant side effects. Melatonin doses vary widely, and a higher dose is not necessarily more effective or appropriate. Adults should follow the product label or advice from a healthcare professional, especially if they take other medicines or have health conditions. However, excessive amounts can lead to daytime drowsiness, headaches, dizziness, nausea, and disrupted sleep cycles. Children are more sensitive, with cases of accidental ingestion requiring medical attention. The FDA doesn't regulate melatonin as strictly as prescription drugs, so supplement concentrations can vary. Many mild effects are temporary, but how long they last varies with the dose, product formulation, and the person. Extended-release products may cause effects for longer.
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