Questions, answered plainly
Can I buy melatonin over the counter in the UK?
No — in the UK melatonin is a prescription-only medicine. We supply it under a Patient Group Direction after a structured online check, and our pharmacist makes the final decision on every order. Nothing is approved automatically.
How much does it cost, and how many tablets do I get?
£15.99 for a supply of up to 10 tablets — enough for up to 5 nights after you arrive and the rest for your return journey. That is the maximum our Patient Group Direction allows per trip (and no more than 16 supplies in a year), so we don't sell larger packs. You pay at checkout, and no money is kept if our pharmacist can't approve your order.
When should I start the consultation?
Before you travel — the course is planned around your flight dates, so start with as much notice as you can.
Can I use this for ongoing sleep problems?
No. We supply melatonin under our travel service for jet lag only. If you have ongoing trouble sleeping, speak to your GP — and for occasional sleeplessness our pharmacy team can advise on other options in store.
When and how do I take melatonin for jet lag?
Take one tablet at your usual bedtime on the night you arrive at your destination, then around 30 minutes before bedtime on the following nights, for up to five days. Doses should not be taken before 8pm or after 4am, and the tablets should be taken on an empty stomach. Our pharmacist will go through the dosing schedule with you before supply.
Is it safe to take melatonin with my other medicines?
Not always. Some medicines interact with melatonin: fluvoxamine should generally be avoided with it, cimetidine and oestrogen-containing medicines can increase melatonin levels, and carbamazepine or rifampicin can reduce them. Melatonin may also enhance the sedative effect of sleeping tablets such as zolpidem or zopiclone. Our pharmacist checks everything you take during the consultation and cannot supply melatonin alongside interacting medicines.
Can I drink alcohol or drive while taking melatonin?
Alcohol can reduce the effectiveness of melatonin, so it is best avoided around the time you take your dose. Melatonin has a moderate influence on the ability to drive and use machines and may cause drowsiness, so use caution if you need to drive or do anything where feeling drowsy could be a risk to safety. Our pharmacist can advise on timing around your travel.
