Melatonin for Shift Work Sleep Disorder
A StrongBased on 26 studies (4 meta-analyses, 2 RCTs) with 1,899 total participants. 16/26 studies show positive effects.
Key Statistics
26
Studies
1899
Participants
Positive
Grade
Referenced Papers
Dosage & Usage
Commonly Used Dosages
- general:
- 0.5-3 mg, 30-60 min before bed
- jetlag:
- 0.5-5 mg
Upper limit: No established UL; 5 mg typically considered maximum
Dosages Studied in Research
| Dosage | Duration | Effect | N |
|---|---|---|---|
| melatonin, light therapy, prescription medications (modafinil/armodafinil); optimized shift schedule | -- | Mixed | -- |
| Melatonin (various doses); light therapy; chronotherapy (various schedules) | -- | Positive | -- |
| 1–10 mg | -- | Positive | -- |
| not applicable | -- | Negative | -- |
| Blue-blocking (amber) glasses worn in the evening | -- | Mixed | 453 |
| melatonin (timed), bright light (timed), stimulants/alertness-promoting drugs | -- | Positive | -- |
| Three meals at 5-hour intervals, beginning 5.5 hours after wake (late meal schedule) vs 0.5 hours af | 13 weeks | Mixed | 10 |
| Melatonin; modafinil; armodafinil; zopiclone; caffeine | -- | Positive | 718 |
Best taken: 30-60 minutes before bed
Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- ⚠ Daytime drowsiness
- ⚠ Headache
- ⚠ Dizziness
- ⚠ Nausea
- ⚠ Vivid dreams or nightmares
Known Interactions
- ● Blood thinners (warfarin) — may increase bleeding risk
- ● Immunosuppressants — melatonin may stimulate immune function
- ● Diabetes medications — may affect blood sugar levels
- ● Sedatives and CNS depressants — additive drowsiness
Tolerable upper intake: No established UL; 5 mg typically considered maximum
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Melatonin help with Shift Work Sleep Disorder?
How much Melatonin should I take for Shift Work Sleep Disorder?
Are there side effects of Melatonin?
How strong is the evidence for Melatonin and Shift Work Sleep Disorder?
Related Evidence
Melatonin for other conditions
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.