Tejal Somvanshi
Online retailer iHerb has suspended sales of melatonin supplements to Australia following an alarming rise in overdose cases among children in Western Australia. Data from WA’s Poisons Information Centre shows calls about melatonin overdoses jumped from 175 in 2018 to 322 by August 2025. Most cases involved children who consumed too many melatonin gummies, resulting in stomach pains and excessive sleepiness.
Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the brain to regulate sleep. While it’s available as a supplement in many countries, Australia has stricter rules about who can access it. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) only approves melatonin for children aged 2–18 with insomnia associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder or Smith–Magenis syndrome – and only with a doctor’s prescription. Adults over 55 can get it from pharmacists for short-term insomnia, and adults can use it for jet lag.
However, many Australian parents have been buying melatonin gummies online from overseas retailers like iHerb, bypassing these restrictions. These gummies, which look like candy, pose a particular risk to children who might mistake them for sweets.
Safety concerns extend beyond accidental overdoses. Studies show the actual melatonin content in supplements can vary dramatically from what’s on the label – ranging from nearly zero to four times the stated amount. Some products even contain serotonin, which can interact with melatonin and affect a child’s mood.
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“It’s important that consumers understand that medicines available on the internet may not meet the strict safety standards imposed by the TGA,” said Dr. Danielle McMullen, President of the Australian Medical Association, who welcomed iHerb’s decision.
Dr. Tim Jones from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners has highlighted that online melatonin products can contain anywhere from 1% to 1000% of the labeled dose, underscoring the risks of unregulated supplements.
The trend isn’t limited to Australia. US Poison Control data shows a 530% increase in pediatric melatonin ingestions from 2012 to 2021, US Poison Control data shows a 530% increase in pediatric melatonin ingestions from 2012 to 2021.
Symptoms of melatonin overdose in children include prolonged drowsiness, headaches, nausea, irritability, and nightmares. While hospitalization is rare, experts advise seeking emergency care if a child may have consumed too many gummies.
Health professionals recommend that parents with concerns about their child’s sleep consult a doctor rather than ordering supplements online. A medical professional can assess whether a prescription is appropriate and suggest behavioral sleep strategies that are proven effective and safe.
iHerb has not indicated when it might resume melatonin sales to Australia, stating only that the company is reviewing its order protocols with customer safety as the priority.
