Melatonin products sold online have been found to contain significantly different amounts of the hormone than what is advertised, according to testing by Australia’s national drug regulator. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) issued a safety alert advising consumers to stop using unregistered imported melatonin products immediately.

Testing revealed that some products contained as much as four times the labeled amount of melatonin, while others had none at all. One product was found to have over 400% of the melatonin stated on its label. The TGA noted, "This variability in melatonin content raises serious safety concerns for consumers, including the risk of hospitalisation and accidental overdose, especially in children."

In response to these findings, the TGA announced plans to intensify efforts against the importation of unregulated melatonin products. The agency warned that the Australian Border Force would seize and destroy any such products intercepted at the border. This announcement follows a report indicating that Australian poisons hotlines received a record number of approximately 1,500 calls last year regarding children ingesting melatonin, marking a significant increase from previous years.

Online retailer iHerb has also suspended melatonin sales to Australia due to the rise in calls to the Western Australia Poisons Information Centre concerning children consuming melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle, and many parents have turned to it to assist their children in sleeping, often purchasing it online in various forms, including flavored gummies.

In Australia, a prescription is required to use melatonin, which is only approved for specific cases, such as for children with autism. However, many parents bypass this requirement by buying melatonin from overseas retailers, where it is often cheaper and available without a prescription. The TGA has cautioned that these imported products may be counterfeit, contain incorrect or undisclosed ingredients, or fail to meet Australia’s stringent safety standards.

The TGA urged consumers to return any remaining supplies of imported melatonin to a pharmacy for safe disposal. They also recommended that parents consult with their child's healthcare provider before administering melatonin, particularly for children with seizure disorders, as it may increase the frequency of seizures.

Dr. Ramya Raman, vice president of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, emphasized the importance of consulting a doctor before giving children melatonin. "It is quite concerning; the medication should match the label to be safe," Dr. Raman stated.

The TGA's findings highlight the potential dangers associated with unregulated melatonin products and the need for careful oversight in their use, especially among children.