When sold in supplement form, melatonin is often marketed as a common over-the-counter sleep aid. However, individuals taking prescription Ambien (zolpidem) should consult with a physician before taking melatonin, since the combination can result in an increased risk of side effects.
Keep reading to learn why combining melatonin and Ambien may mask underlying issues.
Melatonin and Ambien Interactions: Drowsiness and Obscured Systemic Conditions
Both melatonin and Ambien are used for occasional sleep disruption and insomnia.
Melatonin, a hormone produced by the pineal gland, helps control your natural sleep/wake cycle. The body releases more melatonin overnight to promote sleep and regulate your circadian rhythm, the internal clock that helps you know when to sleep and wake up. It also plays a role in the timing and release of female reproductive hormones, helping to determine when a person begins menstruation, the onset and length of menstrual cycles and when menopause occurs. The supplement — sold in many forms, from pills to gummies — is used primarily to encourage sleep for individuals experiencing jet lag or other occasional sleep disruptions.
Ambien is a sedative-hypnotic sleep medication prescribed to treat insomnia and anxiety. It works by acting as a calming chemical in your brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The drug binds to the GABA receptors to cause sleepiness. Because of its risk of dependence, Ambien is usually prescribed for short-term use, and anyone taking it should be monitored by a physician.
Since both medications have similar physiological effects, combining them can be risky, says Praveen Rudraraju, MD, director of the Center for Sleep Medicine at Northern Westchester Hospital and Phelps Hospital.
“Both melatonin and Ambien can cause side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination,” says Dr. Rudraraju. “Taking them together can intensify these effects, increasing the risk of falls, accidents, and next-day impairment.”
However, limited research exists on definitive interactions between melatonin and Ambien. More comprehensive studies are needed to fully understand the risks of taking both medications.
The main issue with using both medications is that they can mask underlying disorders that cause sleep disturbance, like sleep apnea, notes Dr. Rudraraju. For example, taking these sleep aids together may help you fall asleep quickly, creating the impression that your sleep problem is resolved. However, this can delay a diagnosis of the underlying condition.
Safer Sleep Aid Alternatives
To prevent compounding any adverse effects, individuals already taking Ambien should consult with a doctor before trying another sleep aid. Even herbal remedies or supplements can increase drowsiness when taken alongside Ambien, and alcohol should be avoided.
Some individuals may respond better to different sleep aids. If you are still struggling with insomnia or anxiety while taking Ambien, Dr. Rudraraju recommends speaking with your physician about prescribing an alternative—such as Silenor (doxepin) or Remeron (mirtazapine).
Lifestyle changes and habits can also be initiated to promote better sleep. Multiple studies show that regular physical activity can lead to improved sleep quality and help manage certain sleep disorders. Research also indicates that keeping a consistent sleep schedule and maintaining light patterns can help regulate your circadian clock. For example, seeking sun exposure earlier in the day and sleeping in a dark room at night might help your body naturally realize it’s time for sleep.
If you find yourself dealing with recurrent and distressing sleep disturbances, it’s a godd idea to talk to a health professional you trust before diving into the world of supplements. And if you’ve been prescribed a prescription medication for occasional sleep issues, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor for a full rundown of potential side effects.
Check out two more articles in our interaction series: Can I Take Tums with Metoprolol? and Can I Take Ibuprofen With Prednisone?
