Health authorities have issued an urgent warning to parents after discovering unauthorised melatonin in children's magnesium glycinate gummies sold across the UK. The popular supplements, marketed for their calming effects, may pose serious health risks to young consumers.
Undeclared Sleep Hormone Found
Laboratory tests revealed that certain batches of these brightly-coloured gummies contain melatonin - a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. While legal as a prescription medication, melatonin isn't authorised for over-the-counter sale to children in Britain.
Potential Health Risks
Medical experts express particular concern about:
- Unpredictable effects on children's developing brains
- Possible interactions with other medications
- Risk of overdose due to appealing sweet format
- Lack of proper dosing guidelines
Regulatory Action Underway
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has launched an investigation into the products. A spokesperson stated: "These are being sold as food supplements but contain unauthorised medicinal ingredients. We're working to remove them from sale."
What Parents Should Do
Nutrition specialists advise:
- Check labels carefully for melatonin content
- Consult your GP before giving any supplements
- Report adverse reactions to the MHRA
- Consider dietary sources of magnesium instead
The incident highlights growing concerns about the largely unregulated children's supplement market in the UK, where products often make unverified health claims.
