Title: Knowledge, Attitude and perceived safety of community Pharmacists about the effectiveness of Melatonin supplements
Authors: Abeer Abdulhadi Rashid, Hussain Hameed Hussain. Hussam Haider Fadhel, Hammad Mohammed Salih.
Volume: 10
Issue: 6
Pages: 10-15
Publication Date: 2026/06/28
Abstract:
Introduction: Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone found In the brain that is also utilized as dietary supplement and medication. Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland that has a role in sleep-wake cycles. It is commonly used as a supplement to treat interrupted sleep patterns, such as those caused by jet lag or shift work, and is usually taken orally. Melatonin is classified as dietary supplement by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and so has not been licensed for any medical applications. It received medical approval in the European Union in 2007. Objectives: This study aim to explore knowledge, Attitude and perceived safety about the effectiveness of Melatonin supplements. Method: This study is a cross-sectional study, conducted from August- December 2024 in community pharmacist setting. This study was done in Baghdad, Alkarkh and Alrusafa. A sample of 77 pharmacists were chosen. Results: A total of 77 community pharmacists were recruited in this study. The most age participated in this study was (20-29) by about (37.5%) and no participants were reported above the age of 50. Self-medicating patients represent the most common purchasing of melatonin supplements (46.8%). Awareness rate about melatonin supplement pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics among community pharmacists were (66.2%) and (70.1%) respectively. community pharmacists reported relatively high rates of awareness of melatonin supplement pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.Conclusion: Melatonin has several benefits in regulating sleep and circadian rhythms. However, its current misuse, in high doses, and without medical advice, has led to numerous negative effects, especially on children.