Authority source
Safety basis: FDA
FDA
Melatonin
N-Acetyl-5-Methoxytryptamine
Sleep Aid
Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles. It's produced by the body naturally, but taking supplements can also help with sleep.
What it is
A hormone that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles, produced naturally by the body.
Found in
sleep aids, supplements, vitamins
The concern
Long-term effects are not well understood, and high doses may cause side effects.
Legal status
Available over-the-counter in the US, but long-term use should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Low Concern
Generally considered safe for short-term use, but long-term effects are not well understood.
Evidence & sources
Article / explainer
Article / explainer
No highly relevant article explainer found yet.
Video explainer
What is melatonin -- and should you take it to fall asleep? | Sleeping with Science
Video
TED
Watch videoCommunity questions
Community questions
Community discussions are not used as safety evidence and no highly relevant discussion is shown for this ingredient.
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Last updated: June 18, 2026