Meta-Analysis: Melatonin for the Treatment of Primary Sleep Disorders

Researchers combined results from 19 randomized trials involving 1,683 people with primary sleep disorders, meaning sleep problems not caused by another medical condition. They compared melatonin with a placebo, an inactive treatment. Melatonin helped people fall asleep about 7 minutes faster, sleep about 8 minutes longer, and slightly improved overall sleep quality. The benefits were modest, and the studies mainly examined short-term use.

What this means for you: Melatonin may provide a small short-term improvement, but it is not a powerful sleep treatment. Consider the product’s cost, side effects, and possible medicine interactions rather than expecting a major change in sleep.