Until Adaflex came along, paediatric melatonin prescribing in the UK was complicated. After all, around 60% of all melatonin prescriptions in the UK went to under-18s, but most of that fell into off-label or unlicensed use. So clinicians often had to pick between using adult products in children, prescribing unlicensed specials, or pointing families to over-the-counter melatonin from overseas — with all the quality and regulatory concerns each route brought.
Adaflex changed this. Specifically, it’s the first UK-licensed immediate-release melatonin tablet for sleep onset insomnia in children and adolescents with ADHD. So families and clinicians now have a UK-regulated choice designed for this group. The 3mg strength fits patients who’ve titrated up from 1-2mg, and also serves as the standard adult jet lag dose.
Where Adaflex 3mg fits in UK paediatric sleep care
The UK approach to children’s sleep problems follows a stepped path:
Step 1: Sleep hygiene — consistent bedtime routine, dark room, no screens 1-2 hours before bed, regular wake time, daytime physical activity
Step 2: Address treatable causes such as anxiety, sensory issues, sleep apnoea, restless legs, or eczema flares
Step 3: Behavioural sleep work — especially for children with ASD or ADHD who benefit from a structured approach
Step 4: Melatonin under specialist guidance — Adaflex is often the 1st-line tablet choice
Step 5: Liquid melatonin (Ceyesto, Colonis) for children who genuinely can’t take tablets even when crushed
Step 6: Prolonged-release options such as Slenyto (for autism) or Circadin (for adults) if night waking is the main issue
Step 7: Sleep clinic referral for hard-to-treat or complex cases
Adaflex 3mg sits at Step 4. So this strength typically fits after a child has titrated up from 1-2mg without enough effect at the lower dose.
How dose titration works
Specialists usually start low and increase carefully:
Week 1-2: Start at 1-2mg, 30-60 minutes before bedtime
If sleep onset hasn’t improved, increase by 1mg weekly
Adaflex 3mg is the natural next step from 2mg
Maximum daily dose: 5mg
Once an effective dose is found, stick with it
Review at 3 months, then every 6 months
Annual treatment breaks help check ongoing need
In short, the five-strength Adaflex range supports this titration approach directly. So families don’t need to split tablets or estimate doses — they just switch to the matching strength.
Adaflex 3mg vs Adaflex 2mg
Key comparison within the range:
Adaflex 2mg: typically the first step up from 1mg, or the starting dose for some patients
Adaflex 3mg (this product): typically the next step up from 2mg
Same maker, same formulation, same indications
Different doses to support precise titration
3mg is also the SmPC-recommended starting dose for adult jet lag
Always use the lowest effective dose — higher isn’t always better
Adaflex vs Melatonin 1mg/ml Oral Solution
Key comparison with the liquid form:
Adaflex tablets are licensed, cost-effective, come in multiple strengths, and can be crushed and mixed with water
Melatonin 1mg/ml oral solution (Colonis, Ceyesto) covers similar uses, costs more, and sometimes contains propylene glycol or other excipients
Crushed Adaflex in water often works for children with swallowing difficulties
In contrast, the liquid form is for children who genuinely can’t manage any tablet
Adaflex is typically the more cost-effective NHS option
Both reach similar blood levels at equivalent doses
In short, most UK NHS formularies now point to Adaflex (or crushed Adaflex in water) before reaching for the liquid. After all, the licensed tablet form suits more children than people first thought.
Adaflex vs Slenyto
Different products for different sleep patterns:
Adaflex: immediate-release tablets, licensed for ADHD-related sleep onset insomnia in 6-17 year olds
Slenyto: prolonged-release tablets (1mg, 5mg), licensed for insomnia in children aged 2-18 with autism spectrum disorder
So Adaflex helps with falling asleep, while Slenyto helps with both falling and staying asleep
In contrast, Adaflex acts quickly and clears faster — useful for sleep onset alone
Many specialists start with Adaflex; if night waking is the main issue, Slenyto may suit better
Adaflex vs unlicensed melatonin
This is the key point about Adaflex’s licensed status:
Unlicensed melatonin (overseas supplements, specials brands, internet buys) has variable quality, uneven dosing, and no UK regulatory oversight
In contrast, Adaflex is UK-licensed, MHRA-regulated, with full quality control
Unlicensed melatonin can vary widely from label claims in real content
Some unlicensed products turn out to contain contaminants
So Adaflex offers regulatory certainty about what’s in each tablet
After all, the licensed difference matters most for children on long-term treatment. So a UK-licensed product gives parents and clinicians more confidence than an unregulated supplement.
Who Adaflex 3mg suits well
This product may suit:
Children aged 6-17 with ADHD who’ve titrated up from 1-2mg without enough effect
Children with autism spectrum disorder where a specialist has decided melatonin fits
Children who can manage tablets, including crushed in water
Anyone already settled on a 3mg nightly dose of immediate-release melatonin
Adults travelling across multiple time zones who need jet lag treatment (standard SmPC dose)
Families who prefer a UK-licensed product over unlicensed supplements
People who need precise dose matching without splitting tablets
Patients whose treatment has already started under specialist care
Who might suit other options better
Other options may suit better:
Children with autism aged 2-18 needing sleep maintenance — since Slenyto covers this
Children under 6 — Adaflex isn’t recommended here; specialist input matters
Adults 55+ with ongoing insomnia — since Circadin is the licensed choice
Children with severe swallowing difficulties who can’t manage crushed tablets — where the liquid form fits
Children who haven’t yet tried 1mg or 2mg — start lower before moving to 3mg
People who wake through the night rather than struggle to fall asleep
Untreated obstructive sleep apnoea — since this needs targeted treatment, not melatonin
Pregnant or breastfeeding women — since melatonin isn’t recommended in pregnancy
People with autoimmune disease — caution applies; specialist input matters
People with epilepsy — since melatonin may affect seizure frequency in some
Courier Pharmacy supply
Adaflex 3mg is a UK Prescription-Only Medicine (POM). So supply only happens after our UK-qualified prescriber reviews your situation. For paediatric patients, our prescriber typically needs evidence of specialist initiation (paediatrician, CAMHS, sleep clinic) before issuing ongoing supply.
Key features and specs
Active ingredient: melatonin 3mg per tablet
Form: white, round, biconvex tablets marked “3”
Tablet size: 9.5mm diameter, 3.8mm thickness
Pack size: 30 tablets — typically 30 nights’ supply at 1 tablet per night
Age range: children from 6 years and adults
Typical paediatric dose: 1-5mg, 30-60 minutes before bedtime
Adult jet lag dose: 3mg standard for up to 5 days (can increase to 6mg)
Crushable: yes, can be crushed and mixed with water (licensed use)
Food restriction: no food 2 hours before or after dose
Pregnancy: not recommended
Breastfeeding: not recommended
Storage: as labelled, typically room temperature
Legal status: Prescription-Only Medicine (POM)
Marketing Authorisation Number: PL 52497/0003
Maker: AGB-Pharma AB (Sweden)
Additional information
Quantity
1 x 30, 2 x 30, 3 x 30
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Adaflex 3mg Tablets — UK-Licensed Melatonin for Children with ADHD
Adaflex 3mg tablets are the UK-licensed immediate-release melatonin for sleep onset insomnia in children and adolescents aged 6-17 with ADHD. So the licensed status matters — much paediatric melatonin prescribing in the UK historically went off-label or through unlicensed routes until Adaflex came along. AGB-Pharma AB in Sweden makes the tablets, which come in 1mg, 2mg, 3mg, 4mg, and 5mg strengths. This 3mg strength fits patients who’ve titrated up from a lower starting dose, and also serves as the standard adult jet lag dose. Important: paediatric use typically needs specialist initiation, and timing matters as much as the dose itself.
At Courier Pharmacy, we believe in treatment that fits the person.
This page covers what Adaflex 3mg is, when this strength suits, how it compares to other forms, and the practical points that matter most.
Five key takeaways
Adaflex is a UK Prescription-Only Medicine (POM). So supply only happens after our UK-qualified prescriber reviews your situation. For children, treatment usually starts with a paediatrician, CAMHS, or sleep specialist before our service takes on ongoing supply
The 3mg strength fits patients who’ve moved up from 1-2mg without enough effect. After all, NICE recommends starting at 1-2mg, then titrating upwards in 1mg steps weekly to find the lowest dose that works
Also the standard adult jet lag dose. In short, adults typically take 3mg as the standard, with the option to increase to 6mg for journeys that 3mg alone doesn’t handle
Tablets can be crushed and mixed with water — this is a licensed use, so it suits children with swallowing difficulties. As a result, the tablet form often works even where a liquid was first thought to be needed
Critical practical points: take 30-60 minutes before bedtime, and avoid food for 2 hours before and 2 hours after the dose. Specifically, food can almost double the absorption, which affects the timing of the sleep effect
Why choose Courier Pharmacy for Adaflex 3mg
At Courier Pharmacy, our approach starts with a simple idea: treatment should fit the person, not force the person to fit the system.
Dr Ada Jex-Cori
Our service is shaped by the philosophy of Dr Ada Jex-Cori, our brand pharmacist.
Dr Ada represents the spirit of the pharmacy: evidence-led, community-rooted, and willing to challenge the one-size-fits-all approach to medicine. She is named in honour of three pioneering women in science: Ada Lovelace, the mathematician and visionary; Sophia Jex-Blake, the first female doctor in the UK who fought the medical establishment; and Gerty Cori, the biochemist and Nobel Prize winner.
In our fictional world of Ethrewell, Dr Ada fights against pharma’s standardised approach to medicine. In the real world, she represents what we stand for. Her view is straightforward: you are not broken. The system is. And we are here to change that.
Sleep difficulties deserve serious attention
Children’s sleep problems often get dismissed as parenting issues or behavioural difficulties. Courier Pharmacy is different. So we recognise that:
Children with ADHD often have biological sleep timing differences
Sleep hygiene matters, but it isn’t always enough
The whole family suffers when a child’s sleep is broken
Untreated sleep difficulties affect school, mood, and family functioning
Adaflex can be a meaningful part of the solution, not the whole solution
After all, addressing sleep in these children often improves daytime functioning across the board. So our pharmacist takes paediatric sleep difficulties seriously, not as a minor concern.
The licensed melatonin difference
This matters more than many parents realise:
Adaflex is UK-licensed for paediatric ADHD-related insomnia
Most paediatric melatonin in the UK was historically unlicensed or off-label
Unlicensed products have variable quality and inconsistent dosing
Adaflex’s pharmaceutical-grade quality control means each tablet contains what the label says
If we’re prescribing for children, the licensed option matters
Honest framing about specialist initiation
Most paediatric melatonin treatment starts with a specialist, not a GP or online pharmacy. So:
Paediatricians, CAMHS, or sleep specialists usually start treatment
They identify the specific sleep pattern (onset issues vs maintenance issues)
They rule out other causes (sleep apnoea, restless legs, behavioural issues, mental health)
They establish the right dose and timing
Online prescribers (including ours) typically take over stable supply rather than starting from scratch
If you don’t yet have specialist input, we’ll suggest seeing your GP for referral first
Sleep difficulties and the bigger picture
Sleep problems often connect to wider patterns. So our pharmacist can discuss:
Sleep in children with autism, ADHD, or neurodevelopmental conditions
The role of sleep hygiene alongside medication
Sensory processing and sleep environment
Anxiety, mood, and sleep onset
Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) and sleep disruption
Hormonal changes and sleep (perimenopause, menopause)
Delayed sleep wake phase disorder in teenagers
Restless legs, periodic limb movements, and night-time disturbance
Sometimes the sleep problem is the visible part of a wider story — and that’s worth talking through.
Pharmacist support before and after purchase
Our pharmacist is here to discuss:
Whether 3mg is the right strength for your situation
How to use it correctly — particularly the timing and food restrictions
Tablet crushing technique for children with swallowing difficulties
Different strength options if titrating doses
How to handle the annual treatment break
When to ask for specialist review
This is free and on hand before and after purchase.
Trust earned, not claimed
We are GPhC-regulated, and our content is grounded in the BNF, BNFc (BNF for children), NICE clinical knowledge summaries on ADHD and insomnia, NHS guidance, and the real experience of families managing paediatric sleep difficulties.
If Adaflex isn’t the right answer for your situation, we’ll tell you honestly. After all, prescribing the right treatment matters more than fulfilling a request.
How to buy Adaflex 3mg from Courier Pharmacy
Adaflex 3mg tablets are a UK Prescription-Only Medicine (POM). So supply needs a prescription, which our prescriber issues after an online consultation.
How our service works
Add the product to your basket and complete the online consultation
The consultation covers your sleep history, prior treatments tried, specialist input (for paediatric use), current medicines, allergies, and relevant medical history
For paediatric patients, you’ll typically need to provide evidence of specialist initiation (paediatrician letter, CAMHS treatment plan, or hospital prescription)
Our UK-qualified prescriber reviews your answers to confirm suitability
Once approved, your prescription is dispensed and sent out in plain, unbranded packaging
Free pharmacist and prescriber support is on hand before and after your purchase
When other options might suit better
If Adaflex 3mg isn’t right, we’ll explain why. Other options may include:
Different Adaflex strength (1mg, 2mg, 4mg, 5mg) if dose adjustment fits better
Melatonin 1mg/ml oral solution: liquid form for children genuinely unable to take tablets
Slenyto prolonged-release: licensed for autism-related insomnia ages 2-18
Circadin 2mg prolonged-release: licensed for primary insomnia in adults 55+
Sleep hygiene and behavioural sleep approaches: usually the right first step
GP referral to CAMHS or paediatric sleep specialist: for unassessed paediatric sleep difficulties
Sleep clinic referral: for adults with complex sleep issues
Treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea: if breathing-related sleep disruption is present
Mental health support: where anxiety or low mood drives sleep difficulty
Our community service
Our free fortnightly drop-in clinics at Insomnia, Derby run every other week from 10am to 12pm.
Healthcare shouldn’t only happen when you’re paying for it. So we show up, even when it’s free.
We cover sleep difficulties, ADHD, autism support, MCAS, CFS, fibromyalgia, dermatology, eczema, allergies, asthma, hair loss, men’s and women’s health, digestive health, weight management, and whatever else people bring through the door. No appointment needed, no charge, no pressure.
Active ingredient
Each Adaflex 3mg tablet contains:
Melatonin 3mg: a hormone the body naturally makes through the pineal gland to regulate the sleep-wake cycle
Why melatonin
Melatonin stands apart from other sleep medicines. So it's worth understanding what makes it different:
It's a natural hormone, not a synthetic drug — the molecule given as medicine matches the body's own melatonin exactly
It works through specific MT1 and MT2 receptors in the brain's master clock (the suprachiasmatic nucleus)
It signals "time to sleep" rather than forcing sleep through brain-wide sedation
It doesn't cause the cognitive effects, dependence, or rebound insomnia of benzodiazepines or Z-drugs
Tolerance and addiction haven't shown up with regular use
Especially well-suited to children where stronger sedatives don't fit
Why Adaflex specifically
Several features set Adaflex apart from other UK melatonin products:
First UK-licensed immediate-release melatonin tablet for paediatric ADHD-related insomnia
Five strengths (1mg, 2mg, 3mg, 4mg, 5mg) so doses match exactly without tablet splitting
The only UK melatonin tablet available in 1mg — fits the NICE starting dose
Licensed for tablet crushing and water dispersion (suits swallowing difficulties)
Notably, this is a relatively clean ingredient profile. So Adaflex doesn't contain propylene glycol, sorbitol, or other excipients that can be a concern in certain patient groups.
What is Adaflex 3mg for?
Adaflex 3mg has two licensed uses. So the main UK use is sleep onset insomnia in children and adolescents aged 6-17 with ADHD, where sleep hygiene measures haven't been enough. The second licensed use covers short-term jet lag treatment in adults. In addition, prescribers may use Adaflex off-label for autism-related sleep onset insomnia where the clinical decision fits.
Who is it for?
Adaflex 3mg may suit:
Children and adolescents aged 6-17 with ADHD who needed dose increases beyond 1-2mg
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) where a prescriber has decided melatonin fits (off-label use)
Adults with significant jet lag from travel across multiple time zones
Children who can swallow tablets (or take them crushed in water)
Anyone established on 3mg of immediate-release melatonin nightly
People who prefer a UK-licensed product over unlicensed alternatives
What does it do?
Melatonin signals to the brain that it's time to sleep. So the body normally releases melatonin from the pineal gland as light levels drop in the evening. This melatonin binds to receptors in the brain that promote sleep onset and shift the body clock. Taking Adaflex tops up this natural signal — useful where the body's own melatonin timing runs late or comes through too weakly.
What it doesn't do
Adaflex doesn't act like a sedative. So it doesn't typically cause heavy sedation, hangover effects, or dependence. It also doesn't help with sleep maintenance through the night — its main effect targets falling asleep. In addition, Adaflex doesn't cure ADHD, autism, or any underlying condition that affects sleep. Sleep hygiene should continue alongside the cream, not replace it.
How Adaflex works
Adaflex works through the same biological mechanism as the body's natural melatonin. So understanding how this works helps explain why timing matters and why it fits specific sleep problems.
The circadian rhythm mechanism
Your body has a master clock in the brain called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Specifically:
The SCN runs on roughly a 24-hour cycle (the circadian rhythm)
Light entering the eyes signals the SCN that it's daytime, suppressing melatonin release
As darkness falls, the SCN signals the pineal gland to start releasing melatonin
Melatonin levels rise through the evening, signalling "time to sleep"
Levels peak in the middle of the night, then fall as morning approaches
This natural rhythm coordinates with the sleep-wake cycle
Taking Adaflex adds to this natural signal — useful when the natural signal isn't strong enough or comes through at the wrong time.
Why immediate-release matters
Adaflex is an immediate-release tablet, which means:
Melatonin absorbs quickly after swallowing
Blood levels peak within about 30-60 minutes
Mimics a quick burst of natural melatonin
Particularly fits sleep onset problems
Clears from the body faster than prolonged-release forms
Less likely to cause morning grogginess than longer-acting forms
In contrast, prolonged-release products (like Circadin or Slenyto) release melatonin over several hours. After all, the right release profile depends on what's wrong with sleep — onset versus maintenance versus both.
Why timing matters so much
This is the single most important practical point with Adaflex:
Take 30-60 minutes before desired bedtime — not before
Take at the right time, and melatonin reinforces the natural sleep signal
Take too early in the evening, and it can actually delay sleep onset
Take too late, and it may have little effect
Taking it in the morning can disrupt circadian rhythm and worsen sleep
Consistency matters — same time each night helps reset the body clock
Why food timing matters
Adaflex has a specific food restriction — no food for 2 hours before or 2 hours after the dose:
Food can increase melatonin absorption almost two-fold
Carbohydrate-rich meals may impair blood glucose control for several hours when combined with melatonin
Inconsistent food intake leads to inconsistent melatonin effect
This is one of the most often-missed practical points
For evening dosing, finish dinner at least 2 hours before the melatonin dose
Don't eat between taking Adaflex and going to sleep
Why Adaflex suits children with ADHD
Specific biology helps explain this:
Children with ADHD often have delayed melatonin onset (their evening melatonin rise starts later)
Adding melatonin earlier than the body's natural release can advance sleep onset
This addresses the biological sleep issue, not just the behavioural one
That's why sleep hygiene alone often isn't enough in children with ADHD
Improving sleep often improves daytime ADHD symptoms too
How to use Adaflex 3mg tablets
This summary is for reference only. The definitive guide is the patient information leaflet supplied with the tablets. So if anything isn't clear, contact our pharmacist or prescriber.
Standard application — paediatric ADHD-related sleep onset insomnia
For children aged 6-17 with ADHD:
Starting dose is typically 1-2mg, not 3mg straight away
If 1-2mg hasn't worked after 1-2 weeks, the prescriber may increase by 1mg weekly
Adaflex 3mg fits as the next step after 2mg, or as a stable maintenance dose
Take 30-60 minutes before bedtime
Maximum daily dose: 5mg
Find the lowest effective dose and stick with it
Review treatment effect after 3 months — stop if no benefit
Regular review every 6 months while continuing
Annual treatment break to assess whether melatonin is still needed
Adult use — jet lag
For jet lag in adults, 3mg is the standard recommended dose:
Standard dose: 3mg for up to 5 days
If 3mg doesn't help enough, increase to 6mg
Take at the time of bedtime at the destination
Especially useful for journeys of 5 time zones or longer, particularly travelling east
Don't take before 20:00 or after 04:00 local time at destination
Maximum: 16 treatment periods per year
How to take the tablets
Several approaches work:
Swallow whole with a glass of water
OR crush the tablet and mix with a small amount of water immediately before taking
OR for children with swallowing difficulties, the crushed tablet can mix with a tiny amount of soft food (yoghurt, jam)
Don't crush in advance — crush just before taking to avoid melatonin degrading
Don't split tablets to get half doses — instead, ask the prescriber for the matching strength
The food restriction — important practical points
Get this right or absorption will be inconsistent:
Don't eat for 2 hours before taking Adaflex
Don't eat for 2 hours after taking Adaflex
Plan dinner 2+ hours before bedtime
Don't snack between dose and sleep
This restriction matters more than people realise — it's why some children respond inconsistently
Water and small sips of clear fluids are fine
Important timing rules
Get the timing right:
Take 30-60 minutes before desired bedtime — not before
Take at the same time each night for consistency
Don't take with food (see above)
Don't take with alcohol — alcohol disrupts sleep and reduces melatonin's effect
Don't take if there will be bright light exposure (TV, phones, tablets) for the next 30-60 minutes — light suppresses melatonin's action
Don't change the timing without prescriber advice
If you miss a dose
Skip it. So:
Don't take a missed dose later in the night — it can disrupt the circadian rhythm
Don't take it in the morning to "catch up"
Just resume the normal schedule the following night
One missed dose won't undo accumulated benefit
Stopping treatment
Stopping is generally straightforward:
No tapering or gradual reduction needed
Annual treatment breaks help check ongoing need
Sleep difficulties may return after stopping — this is normal
Some children use melatonin for years; others use it for shorter periods
Discuss long-term use with prescriber periodically
Storage
Store at room temperature as labelled
Keep in the original blister pack to protect tablets
Keep out of sight and reach of children
Don't use after the expiry date
Don't share with other household members
Warnings and precautions
Don't use Adaflex if you
Don't use Adaflex if you:
Have a known allergy to melatonin or any other ingredient
Are pregnant — melatonin crosses the placenta and pregnancy safety isn't established
Are breastfeeding — melatonin passes into breast milk
Are a woman of childbearing potential not using effective contraception
Are under 6 years (paediatric use under 6 needs specialist input rather than standard prescribing)
Use with care if you
Talk to our prescriber before using if you:
Have an autoimmune disease (rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis) — melatonin may affect immune function
Have epilepsy or a history of seizures — melatonin may affect seizure frequency in some people
Have moderate to severe liver impairment — Adaflex isn't recommended in this group
Have kidney problems — limited data on use in significant renal impairment
Have asthma — limited data; specialist guidance may matter
Take fluvoxamine (an SSRI antidepressant) — significantly raises melatonin levels
Take warfarin or other anticoagulants — melatonin may potentiate effects
Take diabetes medicines — melatonin combined with carbohydrate meals may affect blood glucose
Are a smoker — smoking reduces melatonin levels
Obstructive sleep apnoea
Important consideration:
If sleep problems include loud snoring, gasping, or breathing pauses during sleep, this could be obstructive sleep apnoea
OSA needs targeted treatment (CPAP, weight loss, surgery) rather than melatonin
Melatonin in untreated OSA can mask the underlying problem
Our prescriber will ask about snoring and breathing pauses to screen for OSA
Diabetes considerations
Specific point about diabetes:
Melatonin combined with carbohydrate-rich meals may impair blood glucose control
This is one reason for the 2-hour food restriction before and after dosing
People with diabetes should monitor blood glucose carefully when starting Adaflex
Tell your prescriber if you're on insulin or other diabetes medicines
Driving and machinery
Adaflex causes moderate drowsiness:
Don't drive immediately after taking Adaflex
Avoid driving and operating machinery within several hours of taking the dose
This typically isn't an issue since Adaflex is taken before bed
If morning drowsiness persists, talk to your prescriber
Older adolescents on Adaflex should be careful about morning driving until effects are clear
Use in children
Specific considerations:
Not recommended for under-6s with ADHD
Specialist initiation usually required (paediatrician, CAMHS, sleep clinic)
Regular review every 3-6 months while on treatment
Annual treatment break to reassess need
Sleep hygiene should continue alongside medication
Monitor for behavioural changes — most are mild, but report any concerns
Use in older adults
Older adults can use Adaflex with some considerations:
Adaflex is licensed for jet lag in adults, not for routine adult insomnia
For adults 55+ with primary insomnia, Circadin (prolonged-release) is the licensed option
Drug interactions matter more in older adults on multiple medicines
Dose may need adjustment for renal impairment
Use in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Not recommended:
Pregnancy: melatonin crosses the placenta; the risk to the unborn child isn't fully known
Breastfeeding: melatonin is excreted in breast milk; the risk to the breastfeeding child can't be excluded
If you become pregnant during Adaflex treatment, stop and contact your prescriber
Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment
Adaflex isn't recommended for people planning pregnancy because of limited fertility data
Side effects
Adaflex is generally well-tolerated. So most people don't experience significant side effects. When they do happen, they're usually mild and self-limiting.
Common side effects
Headache
Drowsiness or sleepiness during the day
Less common side effects
Dizziness
Nausea or stomach upset
Vivid dreams or nightmares
Irritability or mood changes
Increased sweating
Skin rash
Hyperactivity or restlessness (especially in some children)
Uncommon serious side effects
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Liver function test abnormalities
Raised bilirubin
Rare but serious side effects
Severe allergic reactions (swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat; breathing difficulty) — medical emergency
Herpes zoster (shingles)
Low white blood cell count (leucopenia)
Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
Raised blood fats (hypertriglyceridaemia)
Increased seizure frequency in those with epilepsy
Significant mood changes including depression
Stop and seek urgent medical advice if
You develop signs of severe allergic reaction
New seizures occur or seizure frequency increases
Significant mood changes develop
Autoimmune disease symptoms worsen
Severe persistent headache or visual changes develop
Yellowing of skin or eyes (possible liver problem)
Yellow Card reporting
If you notice any side effects, please report them through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/, or talk to our pharmacist.
Drug interactions
Several medicines can interact with Adaflex. So our prescriber will review your medicines list before issuing a prescription.
Important interactions
Tell our prescriber if you take:
Fluvoxamine — strongly raises melatonin levels (combination usually avoided)
Citalopram or other SSRIs — possible interactions
Zolpidem and other sleeping pills — additive sedation
NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen) — avoid evening NSAID use as it may reduce melatonin's effect
Beta-blockers — take in the morning rather than evening to avoid suppressing melatonin's effect
Calcium channel blockers (nifedipine, amlodipine) — melatonin may reduce their effectiveness
Warfarin and other anticoagulants — melatonin may potentiate effects
Oestrogens (in contraceptives or HRT) — may raise melatonin levels
Quinolone antibiotics (ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin) — may raise melatonin levels
Cimetidine (for stomach ulcers) — may raise melatonin levels
Less significant considerations
Generally less concerning but worth flagging:
Caffeine — reduces melatonin effect; avoid in evening
Alcohol — disrupts sleep and reduces Adaflex's benefit
Nicotine — reduces melatonin levels
Psoralens (for psoriasis treatment) — may raise melatonin levels
Frequently asked questions
Why 3mg rather than starting lower?
3mg isn't usually the starting dose. Specifically:
Children typically start at 1-2mg, not 3mg
3mg fits as the next step up if 1-2mg hasn't worked
Adults travelling for jet lag can start at 3mg as the standard dose
Adults can increase to 6mg if 3mg doesn't help enough
Always use the lowest effective dose
Why does Adaflex matter when other melatonins exist?
Three key reasons:
First UK-licensed melatonin tablet specifically for paediatric ADHD-related sleep onset insomnia
Available in five strengths so titration doesn't need tablet splitting
Licensed for crushing and water dispersion, so suits children who can't swallow whole tablets
Before Adaflex, much paediatric melatonin came through unlicensed or off-label routes. After all, having a UK-regulated, MHRA-licensed option for children matters for quality, safety, and prescriber confidence.
Can my child crush Adaflex 3mg tablets?
Yes — this is a licensed use:
Crush the tablet just before taking (don't crush in advance)
Mix with a small amount of water
Drink immediately
Alternatively, mix crushed tablet with a tiny amount of soft food (yoghurt, jam)
This often works for children with swallowing difficulties who would otherwise need liquid
How quickly does it work?
Adaflex builds up effect over days to weeks:
First doses: some sleep onset benefit possible within 30-60 minutes
Week 1: timing effect starts to settle
Weeks 2-4: full benefit becomes apparent
After 3 months: prescriber should review whether to continue
Why the 2-hour food restriction?
Food significantly affects absorption:
Food can almost double the absorption of melatonin
Inconsistent food intake leads to inconsistent effect
Carbohydrate-rich meals may impair blood glucose control
Stick to no food 2 hours before and 2 hours after the dose
This is one of the most often-missed practical points with melatonin
Can I move my child from 3mg back to 2mg?
Yes, with prescriber guidance:
If 3mg works well, the lowest effective dose principle suggests trying lower
Some children settle on 2mg long-term after starting at 3mg
Annual treatment breaks help check whether the dose can come down
Talk to your prescriber before changing the dose
Will my child become dependent?
No. Specifically:
Tolerance hasn't been demonstrated with melatonin
Dependence hasn't been demonstrated either
This is one of the main reasons melatonin is preferred over benzodiazepines in children
Sleep difficulties may return after stopping — but this reflects the underlying issue, not withdrawal
Can adults use Adaflex 3mg for routine insomnia?
Usually not — it's only licensed for jet lag in adults. So:
For adults 55+ with primary insomnia, Circadin 2mg prolonged-release is the licensed option
For routine adult insomnia outside this age group, melatonin isn't first-line
Sleep hygiene and behavioural changes usually suit routine adult insomnia better
Adaflex's adult use is short-term jet lag, not chronic insomnia
How long should my child take Adaflex?
As long as it's helping and being prescribed:
Review at 3 months after starting
Regular review every 6 months while on treatment
Annual treatment break to check ongoing need
Some children use it for years; others use it for shorter periods
Children may grow out of needing melatonin as they mature
Can I drink alcohol with Adaflex?
Avoid alcohol while taking Adaflex. So:
Alcohol disrupts the sleep cycle
Reduces melatonin's effect on sleep onset
Can worsen morning grogginess
This applies particularly to adolescents and adults using Adaflex
What if my child has a bad reaction?
Stop treatment and contact our prescriber or GP. Specifically:
Mild side effects (headache, drowsiness, nausea) often settle with continued use or dose reduction
Significant mood changes or behaviour issues warrant prescriber review
Allergic reactions need urgent medical attention
Seizure issues in epileptic children need immediate specialist input
Can I give Adaflex to my toddler?
No — Adaflex isn't recommended for under-6s. So if your young child has sleep difficulties, see a health visitor or GP for assessment. Many baby and toddler sleep issues respond to behavioural approaches rather than medication. Where medication is genuinely needed in younger children, specialist paediatric sleep input matters.
Is Adaflex safe long-term?
Available evidence supports reasonable long-term safety:
Clinical use of immediate-release melatonin in children has been ongoing for many years
Tolerance and dependence haven't shown up
Limited data exists for use up to 3 years
Some open questions about effects on puberty in children
Regular review supports ongoing safety assessment
Annual treatment breaks help clarify ongoing need
How should I store it?
Storage:
Room temperature as labelled
Keep in original blister pack to protect tablets
Keep out of sight and reach of children
Don't share between household members
Don't use after expiry date
How do I order from Courier Pharmacy?
Add Adaflex 3mg tablets to your basket on courierpharmacy.co.uk and complete the online consultation. For paediatric use, our prescriber will need evidence of specialist initiation. Your order goes out in plain, unbranded packaging.
More than a prescription: our community
Healthcare shouldn't only happen when you're paying for it.
Every fortnight we run free drop-in talks and clinics at Insomnia, Derby, from 10am to 12pm. So we show up, even when it's free.
Bring a question, bring a friend, bring a stack of bewildering letters from another clinic. We'll sit with you.
We cover sleep difficulties, ADHD, autism support, MCAS, CFS, fibromyalgia, dermatology, eczema, allergies, asthma, hair loss, men's and women's health, digestive health, weight management, and whatever else people bring through the door. No appointment. No cost. No pressure. Just real support and treatment that fits.
This article is for information only and isn't a substitute for personal medical advice. Always speak to a qualified prescriber before starting or changing treatment. Paediatric melatonin use typically requires specialist initiation by a paediatrician, CAMHS, or sleep specialist before ongoing supply from online services.
How this content was created
Written by the Courier Pharmacy editorial team and reviewed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist.
The content is grounded in the EMC Summary of Product Characteristics for Adaflex 3mg, the BNF for Children (BNFc), NICE Clinical Knowledge Summary on ADHD management, NHS guidance, and various UK NHS shared care protocols for paediatric melatonin use. In addition, it draws on the real questions families bring to our drop-in clinics in Derby.
