Alex Bartle: Sleepwell Clinic Director on Melatonin being approved for over the counter sale

The Mike Hosking Breakfast

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3d ago 3:00

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A sleep-expert assures Melatonin is safe, but is still urging people to take caution.

Medsafe has given approval for the sleep drug to be available over the counter at pharmacies.

It is commonly used to treat insomnia or jet lag.

Sleepwell Clinic Director Alex Bartle says potential side-effects are fairly minor, and long-term effects aren't fully understood.

However, he doesn’t believe it’s as valuable as it’s made out to be.

Bartle told Mike Hosking behavioural treatments are much more effective.

He says a 2017 study shows a person's total sleep time after taking the medication didn't improve, and says he doesn't prescribe Melatonin at all.

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