Circadin (Melatonin)

What is Circadin (Melatonin) for?

Please note: Circadin (Melatonin) is usually prescribed for primary insomnia. However, we can prescribe the medication for an off-label (unlicensed) use for the prevention of jet lag. Studies ^{[1] [2]} have found Melatonin to be very effective for this problem.

Please note:  Circadin (Melatonin) is usually suited to those travelling East. If you are travelling West, you may not require this medication. However, please discuss this with your own doctor first.

Circadin 2mg prolonged-release tablets contain the active ingredient Melatonin. This is a naturally occurring hormone that targets chemical receptors in the brain to promote better sleep and helps to control our body clock.

Jet lag disturbs your sleep, as well as your thinking and your digestion, and can make you feel irritable and tired during the daytime. Therefore, if you suffer with the problem when travelling across multiple time zones, you can order Melatonin online without prescription for jet lag from Medical Specialists® UK online pharmacy.

Can I get Melatonin on the NHS?

Unfortunately like other ‘travel medications’, you cannot get Melatonin for jet lag on the NHS. However you can buy Melatonin cheap and without a prescription through our simple online consultation service.

How does Circadin (Melatonin) work?

Circadin tablets contain 2mg of the active ingredient Melatonin in a modified-release form.

Modified (or prolonged) means that the Melatonin is gradually and slowly released from the tablet over time. This will usually take 8 to 10 hours, mimicking your body’s own natural Melatonin hormone release to help promote sleep.

How to take Circadin (Melatonin)

Please note: Circadin 2mg tablets are manufactured in pack sizes of 30. Therefore, where we have had to split a pack, you may receive a plain medication box. Rest assure you will receive genuine UK medication inside, with a printed Patient Information Leaflet (PIL).

Please note: A course of Melatonin can be repeated for each episode of jet lag for up to a maximum of 16 treatment periods each year.

Please note: When you buy Circadin online for jet lag, the manufacturer’s PIL will NOT list the dosage and how often to take the drug for this condition, as Circadin is prescribed by us ‘off-label’ for jet lag. Therefore, refer to the following instructions:

Take ONE Circadin tablet only, after eating, and at the local/target bedtime for 2 to 5 nights, starting on the day of arrival in your new time zone.

Swallow the tablet whole – It is important to NOT split, crush or chew Circadin tablets as this will affect the prolonged-release properties of the tablets and make them less effective.

You should have a feeling of natural sleepiness 1 to 2 hours after taking Circadin.

Do not consume alcohol with Circadin, as it will likely interfere with your sleep.

When you arrive at your destination, take Melatonin at the local bedtime (but not earlier than 8.00pm and not later than 4.00am).

How many days do I take Circadin (Melatonin) tablets for jet lag?

When you buy Circadin tablets online, take ONE tablet at the local/target bedtime after arrival at your new destination. As an approximate guide, the number of days treatment required is the number of times zones divided by 2, then add 1 extra day.

For example if you have travelled across 6 different times zones, you would need divide 6 by 2 (this equals 3), and then add an extra 1.  In this scenario, you would require treatment for 4 days. 

However, it is important to note that the above information is only a rough guide for when to take the medication and how often.

Requirements for Circadin may vary between individuals and people may find they need to take it for more or less days, depending on factors such as how quickly they have adapted to their destination after arrival, as well as their regular sleeping habits, etc.

What are the possible side effects of Circadin (Melatonin)?

Please note:  Circadin may interfere with other medicines and cause drowsiness. Please read the manufacturer’s Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) first before ordering. If you have any concerns, please speak to your pharmacist or own doctor before you order.

Please note: DO NOT drive or attempt to operate machinery after taking Melatonin. The medication can decrease alertness for several hours after taking it.

Side effects are rare, and most people don’t get any. Possible side effects may vary from one person to the next, as with any medication. You should always read the PIL before taking this or any other medication.

In addition, please read the Medical Specialists® Circadin (Melatonin) leaflet. This will give you important instructions on how and when to take the medication for the off-label (unlicensed) use of jet lag prevention/treatment.