Why is melatonin banned in the UK?

Melatonin, often called the “sleep hormone,” is a popular solution for individuals struggling with sleep disorders worldwide. In countries like the United States, melatonin is readily available over the counter as a dietary supplement, making it a convenient option for those seeking to improve their sleep quality. However, in the UK, the situation is quite different. Here, melatonin is classified as a prescription-only medication, raising the question: is melatonin illegal in the UK?

In this blog, we’ll explore the legal status of melatonin in the UK, why it’s regulated differently compared to other countries, and how you can access it safely and legally. We’ll also delve into the science behind melatonin, its benefits, and why our compounded melatonin oral patch offers a superior solution for sleep support. Let’s uncover the facts!

Understanding the regulations

Melatonin is not banned in the UK, but it is regulated as a prescription-only medication (POM). This classification means it cannot be sold over the counter or as a dietary supplement, and any sale without a prescription is illegal.

Until 1995, melatonin was available as a nutritional supplement, but the Medicines & Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) now regulates it as a medicine  [1].

At Courier Pharmacy, we provide melatonin through private prescriptions, ensuring safe and legal access.

To get started, complete an online sleep consultation. If you are struggling with sleep and would like to speak to one of our specialists, please contact us to arrange a FREE consultation.

What is melatonin?

Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It plays a critical role in regulating the circadian rhythm, also known as the sleep-wake cycle.

As it gets dark, melatonin levels rise, signalling to the body that it’s time to sleep [2]. During daylight hours, melatonin production decreases, helping us stay awake and alert [3].

Since melatonin only comes out at night, it is also known as the “Dracula” hormone.

Forms of melatonin

Melatonin is available in various forms, including:

• Tablets
• Modified-release tablets (gradual release throughout the night)
• Capsules
• Liquid formulations
• Buccal wafers: Exclusive to Courier Pharmacy, our compounded melatonin soluble oral patch (transmucosal buccal film) offers superior absorption and faster onset compared to traditional formulations.

Why our compounded oral patch is superior

Our compounded melatonin-soluble oral patch is a groundbreaking formulation that offers:

1. Enhanced absorption: By bypassing the digestive system, the buccal film ensures faster and more efficient delivery of melatonin into the bloodstream.
2. Rapid onset: Ideal for individuals seeking immediate relief from sleep disturbances.
3. Convenience: Easy to use and discreet, making it a practical choice for busy lifestyles.

This innovative formulation is tailored to provide a better experience for patients who struggle with traditional melatonin forms.

Benefits of melatonin

Melatonin is widely recognised for its ability to improve sleep quality by regulating the body’s internal clock. It’s role in regulating circadian rhythms and improving sleep has been extensively studied. Research has identified its impact on sleep quality and its therapeutic potential for various sleep disorders [4].

It is particularly effective for conditions such as:

• Jet lag: Traveling across multiple time zones can disrupt your internal body clock, leading to difficulty sleeping and fatigue. Melatonin helps reset your circadian rhythm, making it easier to adjust to new time zones and recover faster [4].
• Shift work sleep disorder: Research highlights the risks associated with night shift work, including disrupted circadian rhythms and increased health risks. Melatonin can help mitigate these effects by improving sleep quality and regulating sleep patterns [5].
• Chronic insomnia: Melatonin can improve sleep quality by regulating the sleep-wake cycle and promoting restful sleep for individuals struggling with persistent difficulty falling or staying asleep [4].
• Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder (DSWPD): This condition causes a significant delay in the sleep cycle, making it hard to fall asleep at a conventional time. Melatonin can help realign the circadian rhythm, enabling a more regular sleep schedule [4].

Summary-Why is melatonin banned in the UK?

No, melatonin is not banned in the UK. It’s just that, unlike other countries, such as the US, it is classed as prescription-only medicine (POM), so you cannot buy it without a valid prescription.

Is melatonin legal to use in the UK?

Yes, melatonin is legal in the UK when obtained through a valid prescription. However, selling it over the counter without proper authorisation is unlawful.

Buy melatonin online in the UK

To order melatonin to help with your sleep issues, complete the online sleep consultation.

 If you would like to talk to one of our specialists about your sleep, please get in touch with us for your FREE sleep consultation.

References:

1. MHRA, Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency
2. Arendt, J. (2022). “Physiology of the Pineal Gland and Melatonin.” National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
3. [Ahsan, S. (2025) “What is Melatonin?”, Medical Mojo, 4 March. Available at: https://medicalmojo.co.uk/what-is-melatonin/ (Accessed: 19 March 2025).]
4. Zisapel, N. (2018). “New perspectives on the role of melatonin in human sleep, circadian rhythms and their regulation.” British Journal of Pharmacology, 175(16), 3190-3199.
5. [Ahsan, S. (2025) “Night Shift Work and Health Risks”, Medical Mojo, 4 March. Available at: https://medicalmojo.co.uk/night-shift-health-risks/ (Accessed: 19 March 2025).]

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