Skip to Content
Local Health

Melatonin over-use could could cause dementia

By
Published 7:12 AM

(KYMA, KECY) - A new study shows melatonin use is up in the U.S. and over-use could be a problem.

The report in the medical journal Jama indicates Americans took more than twice the amount in 2018 than a decade earlier.

The National Institutes for Health says taking melatonin for jet lag overnight shifts or occasional sleeplessness is fine, but high levels of use are linked to dementia, early mortality and other health complications.

The Food and Drug Administration doesn't regulate the pills, so they could have harmful additives or more melatonin than indicated.

Article Topic Follows: Local Health

Jump to comments ↓

Author Profile Photo

April Hettinger

April was born and raised in San Diego where she loved the beach town and her two dogs, Lexi and Malibu. She decided to trade the beach for the snow and advanced her education at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff.

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

KYMA KECY is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.