Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone made by the pineal gland in the brain, mainly at night, and is part of the body's sleep-wake rhythm. Supplements contain synthetic melatonin.
Also listed as N-Acetyl-5-Methoxytryptamine, Melatonine, Melovine, Melatol
What it is studied for
The strongest rated effects first. Bars show the size of the effect, the letter grades the evidence, and each rating lists the studies behind it.
Will melatonin help you sleep?
Melatonin is a hormone involved in the sleep-wake cycle; levels normally rise at night. Supplement research concerns both sleep timing and sleep itself. That distinction matters when comparing a body clock out of step with a persistent insomnia problem. 1 2
Key studies
The most recent publications linked to Melatonin's ratings.
Why people take it
SuppCo community snapshot, 2026-09-28. Reasons for use are not evidence that it works.
Questions people ask
Is melatonin a sleeping hormone?
It is a hormone that helps coordinate the sleep-wake cycle, with levels normally increasing at night. 2
Does more melatonin work better?
The timing-and-dose review does not establish a universal best dose. Its modeling should not be read as a reason to keep increasing the amount. 3
Can I use it every night indefinitely?
Long-term safety remains insufficiently studied; BfR cautions against uncritical use of melatonin supplements. 4
Are gummies equivalent to Circadin?
Circadin is a specific prolonged-release prescription medicine evaluated for a defined older-adult population. Its authorization does not apply to gummies. 2
