Melatonin Gummies: Risks of Overdose Prompt Online Store to Suspend Sales

Melatonin Gummies: Australia Issues Warning After Surge in child Overdoses

Sydney, Australia – August 29, 2025 – online retailer iHerb has temporarily halted sales of melatonin gummies to Australian customers following a concerning increase in reported non-fatal overdoses involving children.the move underscores growing anxieties surrounding the accessibility and safety of over-the-counter sleep aids, notably those marketed to young people.

The Rise in Melatonin Use and Overdose Cases

Melatonin, a hormone naturally produced in the brain to regulate sleep-wake cycles, is increasingly being used as a sleep supplement. Prescription rates for melatonin among children and adolescents experiencing sleep disturbances have risen considerably worldwide in recent years,often prescribed for conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder. However, a parallel surge in the use of non-prescription melatonin products, particularly gummies, has raised alarm bells among health professionals.

Australian authorities have reported a significant uptick in calls to poison hotlines regarding children who have ingested excessive amounts of melatonin gummies. While the majority of cases have not been fatal, they have resulted in symptoms such as nausea, excessive drowsiness, and migraines.The potential for longer-term, and as yet unknown, health consequences remains a serious concern.

Prescription Melatonin Versus Over-the-Counter Supplements

Experts emphasize a crucial distinction between prescription melatonin and readily available over-the-counter supplements. Prescription melatonin is subject to strict quality control and dosage guidelines, making it a relatively safe and effective treatment option for children with specific neurodevelopmental conditions. conversely, the quality and content of non-prescription melatonin products can vary dramatically.

Studies have revealed significant discrepancies in melatonin levels within gummies available on the market, with some products containing levels far exceeding those stated on the label – ranging from virtually zero to four times the advertised amount. Alarmingly, some supplements have even been found to contain serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can interact with melatonin and perhaps affect a child’s mood and wellbeing.

Characteristic	Prescription Melatonin	Over-the-Counter Melatonin Gummies
Regulation	Strictly regulated by health authorities.	Less regulated; quality control varies.
Dosage	Precise and controlled by a medical professional.	Inconsistent and often inaccurate.
Purity	Guaranteed purity and content.	May contain varying levels of melatonin and other substances (e.g., serotonin).
Risk of Overdose	Lower due to controlled dosage.	Higher due to inaccurate labeling and appealing form (gummy).

Why Are children Vulnerable?

The appeal of melatonin gummies to children lies in their candy-like appearance. This,combined with a lack of understanding regarding appropriate dosage,creates a hazardous situation where accidental overdose is easily possible. “What child wouldn’t wont to eat as many gummies as they can?” a leading sleep researcher questioned. Furthermore, the fruity flavors and attractive packaging can entice children to consume more then intended, even without parental knowledge.

Did You Know? Up to one in four children experience behavioral sleep problems, leading some parents to seek readily available solutions like melatonin gummies without medical consultation.

What Should Parents Do?

Health experts strongly advise against self-treating children’s sleep problems with over-the-counter melatonin. Instead, parents are encouraged to consult with a medical professional to assess the underlying cause of sleep difficulties and develop a safe and effective treatment plan. Behavioral sleep strategies proven effective for children, alongside establishing a consistent bedtime routine, remain the gold standard for addressing sleep issues.

Pro Tip: Before considering any sleep aid for your child, discuss your concerns with a pediatrician or a qualified sleep specialist.

The current situation highlights the need for increased regulation of melatonin supplements and greater public awareness regarding their potential risks.Until such measures are implemented, caution and professional guidance are essential to protecting children’s health and wellbeing.

Understanding Melatonin and Sleep

Melatonin plays a vital role in regulating the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, known as the circadian rhythm. Its production is influenced by light exposure, with levels increasing in the evening to promote sleepiness and decreasing in the morning to encourage wakefulness. Disruptions to the circadian rhythm, often caused by inconsistent sleep schedules or excessive screen time, can lead to sleep problems. addressing these underlying factors is often the first step towards improving sleep quality.

Frequently Asked questions about Melatonin

Q: What is melatonin and how does it work?

A: Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Synthetic melatonin supplements can help promote drowsiness, but their effectiveness and safety vary.

Q: Are melatonin gummies safe for children?

A: The safety of melatonin gummies for children is a growing concern due to inconsistent dosages and the risk of overdose. Prescription melatonin is safer under medical supervision.

Q: What are the symptoms of a melatonin overdose in children?

A: Symptoms of a melatonin overdose can include nausea, excessive drowsiness, migraines, and potential effects on other body systems.

Q: Is melatonin addictive?

A: Melatonin does not appear to be addictive, but long-term effects are still being studied.

Q: What should parents do if their child has trouble sleeping?

A: Parents should consult with a pediatrician or sleep specialist to identify the cause of sleep problems and develop a safe and effective treatment plan.

What are your thoughts on the availability of melatonin supplements? Share your experiences and concerns in the comments below!

What are the potential risks associated with the lack of strict FDA regulation of melatonin supplements, notably concerning dosage accuracy and potential contaminants?

The Rising Concern Over Melatonin Use

Recently, a prominent online retailer suspended sales of melatonin gummies, citing increasing reports of adverse effects and potential overdoses, particularly among children. This move highlights a growing public health concern surrounding the accessibility and unregulated nature of melatonin supplements. While often perceived as a harmless sleep aid, melatonin – especially in gummy form – carries risks that consumers need to understand. This article,brought to you by Dr. Priya Deshmukh, will delve into the dangers of melatonin overdose, the reasons behind the increased incidents, and what you can do to protect yourself and your family.

What is Melatonin and Why is it Popular?

Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the pineal gland in the brain, regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Synthetic melatonin is available as an over-the-counter (OTC) supplement, marketed to address sleep disorders, jet lag, and anxiety. Its popularity has surged in recent years, fueled by increasing stress levels and a desire for natural sleep solutions.

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The convenience and appealing flavors of melatonin gummies have made them particularly attractive, especially to parents seeking a sleep solution for their children. Though, this accessibility is a double-edged sword.

The Problem with Melatonin Gummies: Dosage & Regulation

Unlike prescription medications,dietary supplements like melatonin are not subject to the same rigorous testing and regulation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means:

Inaccurate Labeling: Studies have shown that the actual amount of melatonin in gummies (and other forms) can vary considerably from what’s stated on the label. A 2023 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found substantial discrepancies, with some gummies containing much more – or less – melatonin than advertised.

Contaminants: Supplements may contain undisclosed ingredients or contaminants.

Unclear Dosage Guidelines: There’s no standardized dosage for melatonin, making it tough for consumers to determine a safe and effective amount.

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The gummy format exacerbates the problem. Children are more likely to consume multiple gummies, mistaking them for candy, leading to accidental overdose. According to data from the HRSA Poison Help Centre https://poisonhelp.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/poisonhelp/resources/melatonin-fact-sheet-english.pdf,there has been a significant increase in melatonin exposures reported to poison control centers,particularly among young children.

Symptoms of Melatonin Overdose

Melatonin overdose symptoms can vary depending on the amount ingested and the individual’s age and health. Common symptoms include:

Drowsiness & Lethargy: excessive sleepiness and difficulty staying awake.

Headache: Mild to moderate headaches.

Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.

Nausea & Vomiting: Stomach upset and potential vomiting.

Confusion & Disorientation: Difficulty thinking clearly or knowing where you are.

In children: Bedwetting, increased irritability, and in severe cases, slowed breathing or seizures.

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If you suspect a melatonin overdose, contact poison Control promptly at 1-800-222-1222.

Why are Overdoses Increasing?

Several factors contribute to the rise in melatonin-related incidents:

1. Increased Availability: melatonin gummies are readily available in drugstores,supermarkets,and online retailers.
2. Misconception of Safety: Many believe melatonin is a completely harmless, natural remedy.
3. Parental Use & Accessibility: Parents using melatonin themselves may inadvertently leave gummies within reach of children.
4. Lack of Awareness: Limited public awareness about the potential risks of melatonin,especially in children.

protecting Your Family: Practical Tips

here are steps you can take to minimize the risk of melatonin overdose:

Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before giving melatonin to a child (or taking it yourself), discuss it with a doctor.

Store Safely: Keep all supplements, including melatonin gummies, out of reach and sight of children – just like any other medication.

Read Labels Carefully: Pay attention to the dosage instructions and active ingredient amount.

Choose Reputable brands: Opt for brands that have undergone third-party testing for purity and potency. (Look for USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab.com certifications).

Educate Yourself & Others: Share facts about the risks of melatonin with family and friends.

Consider Alternatives: Explore non-pharmacological approaches to improve sleep, such as establishing a regular bedtime routine, creating a relaxing sleep environment, and practicing good sleep hygiene.

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