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Is Melatonin Effective for Insomnia?

Melatonin IS effective for insomnia.

What Is Melatonin?

Melatonin is an over the counter hormone, that is produced by the pineal gland, the secretion of which increases during the nighttime. It is often prescribed in order to help patients with sleeping problems particularly with regard to their body clocks and sleep disturbances.

What Is Insomnia?

Insomnia is a condition that is characterized by the inability to fall asleep and to stay asleep during your bedtime. Patients diagnosed with insomnia can either have acute insomnia or chronic insomnia. Acute insomnia or short term insomnia is characterized by experiencing insomnia fewer than three nights during the week, while chronic insomnia sufferers experience insomnia at least three times a week to a month. Some insomnia sufferers do not have problems falling asleep but cannot stay asleep for more than a few hours, thus causing them to feel tired and unable to function properly during the day.

Insomnia can be caused by stress, anxiety, old age or it can be due to no other cause other than having insomnia itself.

Taking Melatonin Supplements For Insomnia

Studies show that taking melatonin supplements are an effective way to manage insomnia that is caused by aging or old age.

In one particular study conducted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology professors, headed by Richard Wurtman examined the effectiveness of melatonin on patients over the age of fifty, who were experiencing insomnia. The study found that the patients who were given melatonin at 0.3 milligram doses were able to fall asleep easily and at the same time stay asleep throughout the night.

It is also interesting to note that the study found that doses of melatonin higher than 0.3 milligrams were less effective in treating insomnia. Thus, the melatonin supplements in 3 milligram doses which are found in health food stores and drug stores are actually not recommended for those who are seeking for a cure for their insomnia.