Melatonin
Brand names: Various OTC brands|Last verified: 2026-09-12
FAA Pathway: Generally safe to fly — 48-hour ground trial when first used
The FAA's pilot OTC guide lists melatonin as generally safe to fly. No post-dose wait time is specified, but the FAA notes that taking melatonin at the wrong time can worsen jet lag and cause daytime drowsiness. As with any new medication, wait 48 hours after your first dose to confirm you have no side effects before flying.
Related Resources
Pilot Tip
Always report all medications on your FAA medical application (Form 8500-8, Item 17a), even OTC medications. Failure to disclose is a far bigger issue than the medication itself.
Certification Details
Sources
- FAA OTC Medication Guide
- FAA Pilot OTC Medications Reference Guide (faa.gov/pilots/medical_certification/media/OTCMedicationsforPilots.pdf)
Last verified: 2026-09-12
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Melatonin allowed for pilots?
The FAA considers Melatonin (Various OTC brands) to be "Generally Approved" for medical certification purposes. The FAA's pilot OTC guide lists melatonin as generally safe to fly. No post-dose wait time is specified, but the FAA notes that taking melatonin at the wrong time can worsen jet lag and cause daytime drowsiness. As with any new medication, wait 48 hours after your first dose to confirm you have no side effects before flying.
What is the FAA status of Melatonin?
Melatonin has a status of "Generally Approved" under FAA medical certification policy. The certification pathway is: Generally safe to fly — 48-hour ground trial when first used.
Can I fly while taking Melatonin?
Melatonin is generally compatible with flying. However, you must report it on your FAA medical application (Form 8500-8) and ensure you are not experiencing side effects that could impair flight safety. Always consult your Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).
Important Notice
The FAA does not publish a comprehensive list of “approved” medications. The information on this page represents our interpretation of publicly available FAA guidance and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, legal advice, or a guarantee of certification outcome.
The primary issue with the FAA is always whether the underlying medical condition — not just the medication — is compatible with safe flight. You should only start, stop, or change medications after consulting your treating physician. Always consult with a qualified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) for guidance specific to your situation. FAA policies are subject to change. ClearedMed is not affiliated with or endorsed by the FAA.