# Medical guidance on sleep medication and melatonin use > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/medical-guidance-on-sleep-medication-and-melatonin-use > Updated: 2026-08-23T16:39:01.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2. Medical experts and researchers are emphasizing the distinction between traditional sleep medications and the use of melatonin for sleep regulation. Studies from the University of São Paulo and Hospital das Clínicas indicate that 60% of adults with insomnia symptoms use medications such as ‘Z-drugs’, benzodiazepines, or sedative antidepressants, which carry risks of dependency. In contrast, specialists clarify that melatonin is not a sedative or hypnotic. Instead, it functions by signaling the body’s biological time to help synchronize the circadian rhythm. It is specifically indicated for jet lag, shift work, delayed sleep phase syndrome, and certain conditions like ADHD, autism, or hormonal declines in elderly patients. While experts warn against using melatonin without medical guidance, the supplement market continues to expand, with new products such as Night Balance Caps being launched to target sleep onset and symptoms related to menopause. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-23: Melatonin use requires medical caution for sleep regulation Medical experts warn that melatonin is a circadian rhythm regulator rather than a sedative, while new supplements like Mesoestetic's Night Balance Caps target menopause-related sleep issues. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/melatonin-use-requires-medical-caution-for-sleep-regulation ### 2026-08-14: Sleep medication use and melatonin safety discussed by experts A study in Brazil shows 60% of adults with insomnia use sleep medications, while experts warn that melatonin is a circadian rhythm regulator rather than a traditional sedative. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sleep-medication-use-and-melatonin-safety-discussed-by-experts --- Cite as: Medical guidance on sleep medication and melatonin use. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/medical-guidance-on-sleep-medication-and-melatonin-use