What is the brand name for Melatonin?
The brand name for Melatonin is OTC (Melatonin).
PTCE Top 200 · #164
Melatonin
OTC (Melatonin)
Melatonin is the generic name for the brand-name drug OTC (Melatonin). It is a sleep aid (melatonin) used to treat insomnia (sleep onset). On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Melatonin ranks #164 and is one of the most frequently tested cns/psych medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Melatonin |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | OTC (Melatonin) |
| Drug class | Sleep aid (melatonin) |
| Class group | CNS/Psych |
| Common use | insomnia (sleep onset) |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Over-the-counter (OTC) |
What is Melatonin used for?
Over-the-counter sleep aid; commonly used for sleep onset/jet lag (varies by product and jurisdiction).
What drug class is Melatonin?
Melatonin is a Sleep aid (melatonin) in the CNS/Psych group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Melatonin
- arrow_rightDrowsiness
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightVivid dreams
- arrow_rightIrritability
- arrow_rightDaytime sleepiness
Major interactions
- arrow_rightCNS depressants (alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids) may increase sedation
- arrow_rightAnticoagulants/antiplatelets may increase bleeding risk (case reports; monitor)
- arrow_rightImmunosuppressants (may reduce effectiveness of immunosuppression)
- arrow_rightCYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine) can increase melatonin levels
- arrow_rightDiabetes medications: may affect glucose control in some people (monitor)
Is Melatonin a controlled substance?
No. Melatonin is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Melatonin (PTCE mnemonic)
MELA-tonin mimics the dark — pineal hormone signals 'NIGHT'. 30-60 min before bed; sleep-onset (not maintenance); next-day grogginess at high doses; jet lag use.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Melatonin is a dietary SUPPLEMENT, not an FDA-approved drug — purity varies by brand. Take 30–60 minutes before bedtime; its regulation status is the exam angle.
Melatonin FAQ
What is Melatonin used for?
Melatonin is used to treat insomnia (sleep onset). Over-the-counter sleep aid; commonly used for sleep onset/jet lag (varies by product and jurisdiction).
What drug class is Melatonin?
Melatonin is a Sleep aid (melatonin) (CNS/Psych group).
Is Melatonin a controlled substance?
No. Melatonin is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Drill Melatonin the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).