The BBC expert explained the side effects people could face from contaminated purchases
Dr Xand on BBC Morning Live(Image: BBC)
A BBC Morning Live expert has issued a warning to the millions of people affected by bad sleep. Dr Xand urged people not to turn to ‘illegally’ purchasing a drug that could leave them with contaminated medications and side effects. The expert said it’s vital instead to speak to a doctor as they can offer advice and support beyond medications.
Dr Xand explained how people in the UK may be getting their hands on melatonin medications “illegally” from others who have travelled to the United States. He said: “In the UK it’s a drug, in America it’s a supplement so it’s way more popular and available.
“People bring back large amounts, hand them out because it’s thought to be safe and everyone’s very vulnerable when it comes to their sleep. It’s not illegal for you to buy, but it is illegal to sell it in this way.”
Melatonin can be bought like vitamins in the US, but is prescription-only in the UK(Image: GETTY)
Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced in the human body that controls our sleep-wake cycle. It’s become popular on social media, with many people flaunting the hormone in a range of items from pills to gummies and liquid drops.
The expert highlighted the risks that people face when buying melatonin on the “black market”, or not going through their GP. These include potentially getting drugs contaminated with substances “much more dangerous” than melatonin.
Additionally, the doctor explained the effect of melatonin is likely not worth this risk. He said: “It’s not a particularly effective drug for most things.
“It works for jet lag, it does work a bit for insomnia in over 55s but you’re talking about maybe getting 8 minutes more sleep a night.” Millions of people in the UK struggle with their sleep and it can often cause issues like fatigue, brain fog and high blood pressure. According to The Sleep Charity, in the UK 37% of adults experience insomnia.
Dr Xand urged people to go to their doctor if they are experiencing these issues as GPs can help provide medications, diagnose any underlying causes and provide you with reliable advice.
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If you are struggling with sleep, Dr Xand advised looking at some lifestyle changes first before heading to the medicine counter.
He said: “Getting out of bed at the same time everyday is much more important than your evening routine in terms of timing.
“Moving your phone out of your bedroom makes a big difference. Blue light is not the thing here. What keeps you awake is what’s on the phone.
“These are natural ways to help your brain make (melatonin) in the right way at the right time and allowing your brain to naturally regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Your brain is making melatonin, allow it to work.”