Melatonin doses may differ from labeled amounts; here’s the accurate dosage information.

Recent research conducted by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) scientists has revealed significant discrepancies in the melatonin content of various dietary supplements. Specifically, a study assessed 110 melatonin products purchased in 2023, with a focus on those specifically marketed for children. This analysis was featured in a peer-reviewed journal in October, marking it as the largest examination of melatonin supplements in the United States. Critics, however, noted that the FDA did not disclose the specific products involved in the study.

The findings have provoked concern among health professionals. A request filed by The Washington Post under the Freedom of Information Act sought to uncover the identities of the tested supplements and the associated results. Initial reports indicate that certain brands, including Zarbee’s, Robitussin, and Creekside Natural Therapeutics, displayed the most significant variances from the declared amounts of melatonin on their labels. Notably, some products like WellYeah, Calmable, and Nextdia were found to contain negligible to zero detectable melatonin per serving.

Specialists in pediatric sleep medicine have expressed alarm regarding the variability and reliability of melatonin supplements. Experts argue that melatonin should be regarded with the same caution as prescribed medications, emphasizing the necessity of administering the smallest effective dosage, ideally beginning at half a milligram after exhausting other sleep enhancement techniques.

The FDA examination revealed that only half of the products tested accurately reflected their labeled melatonin content, maintaining a range of 76 to 126 percent of the stated amount. Of the products examined, 20 demonstrated content ranging from 0 to 76 percent of the labeled quantity, while 35 went beyond expectations, containing anywhere between 126 and 667 percent of what was claimed. The median melatonin dosage across the tested samples was 1.7 mg per serving.

The FDA’s research methodology involved a comprehensive approach, compiling a list of 199 melatonin products available in the United States. To ensure a thorough evaluation, product selection mirrored consumer purchasing behavior, utilizing third-party online vendors for keyword searches. Following this, researchers processed the supplements to accurately measure their melatonin contents.

In light of the FDA’s findings, there is an increasing emphasis on the need for accurate labeling and quality assurance among supplement manufacturers. Critics underline that consumers, particularly parents of young children, deserve access to products that are both accurately labeled and responsibly manufactured. The ongoing scrutiny from health experts suggests that consumers should seek third-party tested products, emphasizing transparency and safety, especially given the potential implications for children’s growth and development related to melatonin use.

As melatonin continues to grow in popularity, it’s imperative for parents and caregivers to remain informed about effective sleep strategies and the potential risks associated with unsupervised melatonin supplementation.