Proper Melatonin Dosage

The reality about proper melatonin dosage is that there is none. While there are guidelines that recommend amounts to take, there is considerable variability for the correct melatonin dosage. Some people are sensitive to melatonin and respond to a dosage of less than one gram, while others need 5 to 10 grams per dose to find the relief they are seeking.

Forms of Melatonin

• You can take your proper melatonin dosage in the form of liquid, tablet and nasal spray. It is found in formulas that provide immediate or extended release melatonin. An article that features melatonin published by Creighton University says, "Some evidence suggests that (for insomnia) a short-lived, higher-peak dosage of melatonin is more effective, so it is better to use an immediate release formulation..."

Proper Melatonin Dosage for Depression

• You do not need a large melatonin dosage to alleviate the symptoms of depression. This is because patients with depression tend to be sensitive to melatonin and respond well to low doses of less than 1mg daily. The University of Maryland Medical Center says the proper melatonin dosage for depression is, "0.125mg twice in the late afternoon, each dose 4 hours apart" before your planned bedtime.

Proper Melatonin Dosage for Sarcoidosis

• Sarcoidosis is a health condition that causes the patient to develop fibrous tissue in the lungs and other body tissues. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the few clinical studies that have been conducted are not conclusive but suggest, "that melatonin may be helpful for those who do not improve from conventional steroid treatment."
  The proper dosage of melatonin for sarcoidosis patients is considerable when you compare it to the proper dosage for other ailments. While the proper dosage of melatonin is usually 5 grams or less, the University of Maryland Medical Center says proper dosage of melatonin for patients with sarcoidosis is "20 mg per day for 4 - 12 months." An inadequate number of studies has been conducted on the effects of long-term use of melatonin. Do not undertake this regimen without first consulting your health care professional.

Melatonin Dose Precautions

• Even the proper melatonin dosage can produce side effects in some people. Vivid dreams and nightmares can occur. You may also experience drowsiness in the morning. If this happens, consult your health care professional and request a lower dose. Types of medications that may interact with melatonin are antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, anticoagulants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, immunosupressants, tamoxifen and blood pressure prescriptions.