What happens to your blood pressure when you take melatonin

Some research suggests that melatonin, taken as a dietary supplement, may have beneficial effects on blood pressure. However, the evidence is limited. However, taking melatonin may indirectly help by promoting better sleep, which may reduce the risk of heart problems.

How Melatonin Affects Blood Pressure

A few studies suggest that melatonin supplements may help lower blood pressure. However, the amount of melatonin and duration of use varied between studies.

A 2024 review of several clinical trials concluded that results are mixed overall. Some studies have shown a slight reduction in blood pressure with melatonin supplementation, particularly in people with high blood pressure or those at risk of developing it.

However, other studies have shown no significant effects on blood pressure, while some have shown that melatonin may have additional cardioprotective properties.

Melatonin could indirectly have a positive effect on blood pressure by promoting better sleep. Lack of good quality sleep has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease.

Benefits of Melatonin

Melatonin supplements are primarily used in association with sleep. They can help with:

• Falling asleep and staying asleep
• Sleep quality
• Adapting to time difference
• Delayed sleep-wake phase disorder
• Some sleep difficulties in children (more research is needed on the safety of melatonin use in children)
• Anxiety before surgery

Although melatonin may help some people fall asleep more easily, there is not enough strong evidence that it is safe and effective for treating chronic (long-term) insomnia.

Additionally, the amounts of melatonin in over-the-counter products are not closely regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Therefore, some products may not contain the exact quantities and ingredients stated on the label. Look for products that have been independently tested by organizations such as NSF, US Pharmacopeia or ConsumerLab.com.

Side effects of melatonin

Short-term use of low doses of melatonin appears to be safe for most people, but the effects of long-term use are not well known.

Melatonin should not be used if you:

• are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have an autoimmune disease
• Have a seizure disorder
• Suffer from depression
• Suffer from dementia

Melatonin supplements may increase blood sugar levels and interact with certain medications used to treat high blood pressure. Talk to your healthcare professional before taking melatonin if you have diabetes, liver or kidney problems, high blood pressure, or if you are taking a blood thinning medication.

Side effects of melatonin may include:

• Daytime sleepiness
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Mood changes
• Vivid dreams or nightmares
• Irritability
• Dry or itchy skin
• Heart palpitations

Melatonin may interact with certain medications or other supplements. Consult your healthcare professional before taking melatonin if you are currently taking other medications.

Ways to Prevent and Control High Blood Pressure

Other ways to help prevent and control high blood pressure include:

• Limit sodium
• Adopt a heart-healthy diet, such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet.
• Practice regular physical activity
• Achieve and maintain a healthy weight for you
• NO SMOKING
• Avoid or limit alcohol
• Get enough and good quality sleep
• Managing stress
• Check with your healthcare provider regularly
• Take all medications prescribed by your healthcare professional as directed