Experts Call for Reclassification of Melatonin as a Drug Due to Safety Concerns
Melatonin, a hormone naturally produced by the body, is widely available in the U.S. as a dietary supplement marketed for sleep aid purposes. However, experts are raising concerns about its classification as a supplement, which allows it to bypass stringent governmental regulations applied to pharmaceuticals. This has resulted in issues such as inaccurate dosage labeling and insufficient safety information, particularly regarding its long-term effects on children. Research indicates that actual melatonin concentrations in products can vary significantly from what is reported on labels. Despite its popularity, especially among school-aged children, there is a lack of comprehensive safety trials, leading some experts to advocate for its reclassification as an over-the-counter drug to ensure better regulation and consumer safety. 
