Circadin 2mg Prolonged-Release Tablets
Pack of 30 tablets · Prolonged-release tablets
A non-Z-drug option containing melatonin, often considered for adults aged 55 and over with poor-quality sleep.
GP information & consent
For all Prescription Only Medicines — and particularly controlled drugs — the clinic requires your GP details. In line with healthcare regulations, we will notify your GP when supplying high-risk Prescription Only Medicines such as controlled drugs. You can opt out of this consent, however this may affect the prescriber's decision to prescribe certain medications.
To support our safety checks, we may also request access to your GP medical records. This is an optional consent, however declining may impact the prescriber's ability or decision to prescribe.
Official medicine information
View the SmPC and Patient Information Leaflet on emc
electronic Medicines Compendium — the authoritative source for UK licensed medicine information.
Active ingredient
Melatonin
Strength
2mg
Form
Prolonged-release tablets
Pack size
Pack of 30 tablets
How it works
Circadin contains melatonin, a hormone naturally produced by the body to help regulate the sleep-wake cycle. The prolonged-release formulation is designed to release melatonin steadily over the night, supporting more restful sleep — particularly where natural melatonin levels are reduced (often with age).
How to take
Take one tablet 1–2 hours before bedtime, after food. Swallow whole — do not crush or chew. Treatment is typically reviewed after 13 weeks. Suitable for short-term use in adults aged 55 and over with primary insomnia, where appropriate.
Possible side effects
- Headache
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- These effects are generally mild and uncommon.
Important warnings
- Do not drive or operate machinery if you feel drowsy.
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it may reduce its effectiveness.
- Tell your pharmacist about any autoimmune conditions, liver or kidney issues.
- Not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Lower risk of dependence than Z-drugs, but should still be used as advised.
Storage
Store below 25°C in the original packaging, protected from light. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
How this medicine is supplied
Safer supply for high-risk medicines
- Identity verification before any supply is approved.
- GP notification — and, where appropriate, verification with your GP.
- Direct prescriber contact by phone or short video where clinically indicated — not questionnaire only.
- Limited quantities and structured review.
Your prescriber
Pharmacist Independent Prescriber
All Prescription Only Medicines on this page are reviewed and (where appropriate) prescribed by a UK-registered Pharmacist Independent Prescriber. You will be told your prescriber's name and registration number before treatment is supplied.
Important
This information is provided for general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional clinical advice. Treatment is only supplied following a consultation, suitability checks and pharmacist review. If this medicine is not suitable for you, our pharmacist will discuss alternatives.
Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you have a medical emergency, call 999 immediately.
Suspected side effects can be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme. Reporting helps make medicines safer for everyone.
Last reviewed: April 2026.
Better sleep, calmer days and more considered pain support — start today.
Start a confidential online consultation with our pharmacy-led team. A UK-registered pharmacist will review your case and decide on the safest treatment.
All treatment subject to clinical assessment.