I did not. I would if I did not have easy access to the Rozerem. Over-the-counter melatonin is not regulated by the FDA and is of wildly varying quality. The advantage of the synthesized capsule is that the dosage is consistent and effective.

Yes, OTC Melatonin is not regulated by the FDA, mainly due to the lack of studies on its long-term effects.

If you were going to try it, go for a low dose. Try 300 micrograms [1]. Most stores sell a minimum dose of 1 milligram, but you can find the lower dose stuff on Amazon.

1. http://web.mit.edu/newsoffice/2005/melatonin.html

I would avoid melatonin as regular use can disrupt the natural release of it in the body, i.e. take too many pills and your body stops producing can stop producing it permanently.

Source: My cousin... he's a nurse, so maybe take my advice with a grain of salt.

Right. I can only recommend it for someone who has an actual melatonin deficiency. People with healthy melatonin systems take on only risks and gain no benefit from the additional melatonin.

Melatonin in higher doses (the 3mg pills commonly sold OTC) causes incredibly vivid dreaming. So that is one entertaining side effect.