Melatonin is a hormone primarily produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It plays a crucial role in regulating the body's sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm. Melatonin production naturally increases in the evening, signaling to the body that it's time to prepare for sleep, and decreases in the morning. As a dietary supplement, melatonin is widely used to address various sleep-related issues, including insomnia, jet lag, and shift work disorder. It is available over-the-counter in various forms, such as pills, capsules, liquids, and chewables. While generally considered safe for short-term use, its efficacy and long-term safety continue to be subjects of scientific research. (NIH ODS)
Deep dive
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Known interactions
Category rule: glp1 × supplement
Note
GLP-1 medications slow stomach emptying, changing how/when oral supplements absorb; rapid weight loss raises the importance of protein and micronutrients.
Time oral supplements when nausea is lowest; prioritize protein and micronutrients; discuss with your provider.
Category rule: supplement × medication
Note
Some supplements change how the body processes medications (absorption, liver enzymes, or additive effects).
Specific pairs are checked against a licensed drug database and shown with their own severity. Always confirm with your provider or pharmacist.
Compound-pair rule
Note
Additive sedation possible.
Start at low melatonin dose (0.3–1 mg) when combined with prescription sedatives.
Compound-pair rule
Note
Additive sedation possible.
Start at low melatonin dose (0.3–1 mg) when combined with prescription sedatives.
Compound-pair rule
Note
Additive sedation possible.
Start at low melatonin dose (0.3–1 mg) when combined with prescription sedatives.
Compound-pair rule
Note
Additive sedation possible.
Start at low melatonin dose (0.3–1 mg) when combined with prescription sedatives.
Compound-pair rule
Note
Additive sedation possible.
Start at low melatonin dose (0.3–1 mg) when combined with prescription sedatives.
Compound-pair rule
Note
Additive sedation possible.
Start at low melatonin dose (0.3–1 mg) when combined with prescription sedatives.
Frequently asked
Sources referenced
["NIH ODS (National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements)", "MedlinePlus (National Library of Medicine)", "PubChem (National Library of Medicine)", "Mayo Clinic", "EMA SmPC (European Medicines Agency Summary of Product Characteristics)", "Cochrane Library Summaries", "DrugBank"]
Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.
Related compounds
Others in the supplement category or studied for the same goals.