Key Takeaways

Melatonin is not physically addictive, but some people may feel they need it to sleep.

Low doses of melatonin (0.3 mg to 1 mg) can be as effective as higher doses.

Using melatonin is best as a temporary aid to help adjust your sleep cycle.

Melatonin is a natural hormone your body makes to regulate your sleep cycle. Taking a supplement doesn’t force you to sleep, but signals your body that it’s time to wind down. Experts say it is not physically addictive, but you could psychologically depend on it.

Why Melatonin Might Be Perceived as Addictive

Unlike certain sleep medications, melatonin is not physically addictive, so it can’t cause biological dependence or withdrawal symptoms, said Jagdeep Bijwadia, MD, a board-certified sleep medicine physician and medical director at

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