Comment · Tue, November 4, 2014 · Ceretropic
how to safely/effectively use melatonin long term without developing a tolerance?
Original post in this thread
lolOfAllTheThingsToC · 9 points
Low dose melatonin works for my insomnia (300 mcg (m3 mg) http://www.amazon.com/Sundown-Naturals-Melatonin-Tablets-tablets/dp/B001G7QWBW).
However, i am scared of just taking it continuously indefinitely because i am afraid it will stop working, and then i wont have anythign to help my insomnia.
I took it for a week about a month ago, and after that week i had a few days of rebound symptoms, which does worry me.
I am also scared of prolonged use causing my body to stop or derange it's own melatonin production
What is the safest/effective range to cycle melatonin without it losing its effectiveness or developing a tolerance?
Thanks
What they were answering
nachos420 · 7 points
i remember examine.com says melatonin doesn't effect endogenous production: "Taking melatonin is not associated with negative feedback (when taking supplementation causes your body to produce less of a hormone)."
u/MisterYouAreSoDumb · Ceretropic
It does not suppress endogenous melatonin production, but can down-regulate melatonin receptors in high dosages. That is why some people taking large dosages for long periods become dependent on it. Also, Examine does state that melatonin supplementation can lead to downregulation of the StAR enzyme, as well as other steroidogenic enzymes, such as 3β-HSD and 17β-HSD. That can affect testosterone levels. Taking more than you need is never a good idea.