Melatonin is only useful for jet lag
8.0Strong
evidence
evidence
The Claim
Some individuals think that melatonin is solely beneficial for treating jet lag and has little to no effect on other sleep disturbances or conditions.
Origin
This perception may come from early studies and reports that highlighted melatonin's use in adjusting to new time zones.
What Science Says
While melatonin is indeed effective for alleviating jet lag symptoms, randomized controlled trials and reviews also support its use in treating delayed sleep phase disorder and some sleep issues in children with autism and ADHD. It is not limited to jet lag, though effectiveness varies by condition.
Verdict
Misleading
Sources
- PMID:34030534 Evening wear of blue-blocking glasses for sleep and mood disorders: a systematic review.
- PMID:37593770 Blue-light filtering spectacle lenses for visual performance, sleep, and macular health in adults.
- PMID:29908879 Exogenous melatonin as a treatment for secondary sleep disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis.