Question 1

Do Melatonin and SSRI antidepressant interact?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Melatonin is metabolised partly by CYP1A2 and can modestly raise SSRI levels; sedative effects may also add. This is classified as a mild interaction. Low doses of melatonin are generally tolerated. Start at 0.5-1 mg and discuss with your prescriber.

Question 2

Do I need to separate Melatonin and SSRI antidepressant?

Accepted Answer

No fixed interval is required. Low doses of melatonin are generally tolerated. Start at 0.5-1 mg and discuss with your prescriber.

Question 3

What is the mechanism behind the Melatonin and SSRI antidepressant interaction?

Accepted Answer

Melatonin is metabolised partly by CYP1A2 and can modestly raise SSRI levels; sedative effects may also add.

Question 4

Should I stop taking Melatonin or SSRI antidepressant?

Accepted Answer

Not on the basis of this interaction alone. Restructuring timing is usually the right response: Low doses of melatonin are generally tolerated. Start at 0.5-1 mg and discuss with your prescriber. Talk to your physician or pharmacist before stopping anything prescribed.

Question 5

How strong is the evidence for this interaction?

Accepted Answer

This rule is derived from an indexed peer-reviewed study. The source is linked on this page so you can read it directly.

Question 6

What happens if I ignore this interaction?

Accepted Answer

The main effect is reduced absorption, so one of the two does less work than you are paying for. Low doses of melatonin are generally tolerated. Start at 0.5-1 mg and discuss with your prescriber.

Pair	Melatonin and SSRI antidepressant
Type	Nutrient–drug interaction
Severity	Mild
Required spacing	None specified
Onset	At the time of dosing

Melatonin and SSRI antidepressant: interaction, severity and spacing

The interaction in detail

Mechanism

What to do

How to fit both into one day

Melatonin and SSRI antidepressant: common questions