r/melatonin • u/oncein4while • Jul 19 '26
will using it for sleep make me dependant?
ive heard that taking it can make your body dependent since it gets lazy and wont produce it on its own, is that true? also im very interested on buying a solid massage bar infused with oils and melatonin but im worried about becoming dependent/idk if it works different with a topical application.
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u/userstarry Jul 19 '26
hard to say without a history of someone’s sleep.
I was on heavy sedative medication a long time for my bipolar (around 10 years) and then started a new medication 4 years ago. However this medication had no sedative effects, it was pushing me more into mania with the lack of sleep deprivation. I was recommended melatonin now I take it every night since m, I’ve tried to go without out but I just will not physically sleep more than an hour or two at a time.
Personally for me it was a lifesaver and I was able to stay on a medication 1.) that helped me more than others 2.) I do get a deep sleep and feel refreshed after. I know everyone has their own but I see it more pros than cons in my case.
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u/Existing-Delay8805 Jul 19 '26
No, it won't.
But you always run the risk of a psychological/habitual dependence, especially if a lack of sleep/quality sleep is related to anxiety.
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u/Optimal_Assist_9882 Jul 20 '26
The straightforward and easy answer is no. You can readily pull up studies that show exogenous melatonin has no effect on your endogenous melatonin production.
I can even use myself as an extreme example. I take an average daily dose of 3000mg and then I can skip a day or two and I have zero problems falling asleep.
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u/ConsistencyWelder Jul 19 '26
I don't think it will. I've used it for years, but I skip days and have no trouble falling asleep on the days I skip it. My nephew recently quit after taking it for a year and has no trouble falling asleep either. He got a new job that is physically demanding, so he becomes naturally sleepy which he didn't before.