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melatonin - oral

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GENERIC NAME: MELATONIN - ORAL

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Melatonin has been used for short-term treatment of trouble sleeping (insomnia) due to sleep cycle disorders and time changes ("jet lag"). This product may help you fall asleep faster and decrease the number of times you awaken during the night. It may also help you sleep for a longer time. Melatonin is a substance that your body normally makes. It is thought to help your body's regular daily cycle, hormone production, and sleep patterns.Some herbal/diet supplement products have been found to contain possibly harmful impurities/additives. Check with your pharmacist for more details regarding the particular brand you use.The FDA has not reviewed this product for safety or effectiveness. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

HOW TO USE: This product is taken by mouth with or without food, usually 2 to 4 hours before bedtime or as directed by the package label. Follow all directions on the product package. If you are uncertain about any of the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. If you are taking the extended-release tablets, do not crush or chew them. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split extended-release tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing.If you are using a liquid form, carefully measure your dose using a medication-measuring device or spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.This medication may start to work within 30 minutes. If your condition persists or worsens, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.

SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, dizziness, shaking, nausea, or abdominal cramps may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. This product may also make you drowsy or less alert during the day. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have daytime drowsiness.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes (e.g., depression, confusion).A very serious allergic reaction to this product is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.