We’ve all been there: tossing and turning, unable to get the rest we need. If you're finding it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep, you're not alone. As we age, our bodies naturally produce less melatonin, the hormone that helps us wind down for a good night's rest. But what if there was a way to give your sleep cycle a little boost without the side effects of regular sleeping pills? Enter melatonin supplements, now available over the counter in Australia for those aged 55 and over. Let’s take a closer look at how melatonin can help, why it’s a safe option, and what you need to know before using it.

Melatonin is a hormone your body naturally makes to help you sleep. When it gets dark, your brain releases melatonin, telling your body it’s time to wind down. In the morning, as the sun comes up, melatonin levels drop, helping you wake up and feel refreshed. It’s a key part of your natural sleep cycle.

But for some people, falling asleep or getting a full night of rest can be tough. Whether it's due to ageing or other factors, sometimes your body just doesn’t produce enough melatonin. That’s where melatonin supplements can help. In 2021, melatonin became available over the counter in Australia for people aged 55 and over. This came after the country's medicines regulator approved it for sale, making it easier for older adults to get the sleep support they need. The reason it’s only available to people aged 55 and older is that melatonin production naturally declines with age, which can lead to poor sleep. 

“Melatonin is considered safe for short-term use,” said leading pharmacist John Bell. “As people age, their natural supply of melatonin depletes, which can lead to poorer sleep.” Unlike sleeping pills, melatonin won’t make you feel groggy the next day, it’s not addictive, and it doesn’t cause dependence. “In contrast to many sleep medications, people are unlikely to become dependent, have a diminished response after repeated use (habituation), or experience a hangover effect,” Bell said. This makes it an attractive option for people who want to improve their sleep without the risk of side effects that come with traditional sleeping pills.

Melatonin helps you fall asleep naturally without disrupting your sleep cycle, meaning it’s less likely to cause the “hangover” effect that often follows the use of stronger sleep medications. It’s a more gentle solution for those who need a bit of extra help drifting off to sleep.

Even though melatonin is now available over the counter, it’s important to make sure you’re using it safely. “If the country of origin from which some Australians have been purchasing melatonin products does not have the same regulatory excellence as Australia, there is no way to check the products are safe, of a high quality and do what they are supposed to do,” Bell explained.

Before purchasing melatonin, make sure it’s coming from a regulated pharmacy. While it’s now easier to access, it’s still essential to get the right advice. When purchasing melatonin over the counter, a pharmacist’s approval is required, which ensures that you’re using it appropriately and safely.

Sleep issues can have serious impacts on your life, including work performance, relationships, and overall well-being. In fact, sleep disorders cost the Australian economy billions each year. A 2013 study estimated the indirect cost of sleep disorders at $3.1 billion in lost productivity and $650 million in informal care and other indirect costs resulting from motor vehicle and workplace accidents.
By making melatonin more accessible to those who need it, the hope is that it can help mitigate some of these costs by offering a natural, effective sleep aid for older Australians who may be struggling with disrupted sleep.

The availability of over-the-counter melatonin offers a simple, natural solution for improving sleep, especially for older adults who experience melatonin depletion. While it’s an excellent option for many, it’s important to remember that everyone’s needs are different, and melatonin should still be used with care. Always consult with your pharmacist to make sure it’s the right fit for your specific situation. With the right guidance, melatonin can help you achieve more restful nights without the side effects of traditional sleeping aids.