Typical dose
Typically 2-5 mg taken once daily, 30-60 minutes...
Oral
Oral safety: very low
About this supplement
Extended-release or sustained-release melatonin is a pharmaceutical formulation of the hormone melatonin designed to release the active ingredient gradually over an extended period, typically 4-8 hours. Unlike immediate-release melatonin, which produces a rapid peak in blood concentration, this form aims to mimic the body's natural prolonged nocturnal melatonin secretion pattern. It is commonly used to support sleep maintenance, reduce nighttime awakenings, and improve overall sleep quality by providing a steady supply of melatonin throughout the sleep cycle. The extended-release mechanism is typically achieved through specialized coating technologies, matrix systems, or osmotic pump delivery systems that control the dissolution and absorption rate in the gastrointestinal tract.
How much to take
- Typical amount
- Typically 2-5 mg taken once daily, 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Lower doses (0.5-1 mg) are sometimes used. Clinical studies often use 2 mg prolonged-release formulations.
- Suggested range
- 0.5-10 mg daily
Potential benefits
Benefits linked to this supplement form:
Things to watch for
Possible side effects linked to this form:
Health goals
Needs and goals this form may help with:
Other forms of Melatonin
Compare absorption and active amounts with sibling forms:
Extended Release Melatonin
Immediate-Release Melatonin
For occasional sleeplessness; helps reduce time to fall asleep. Use 30-60 minute...
Melatonin with Receptor-Specific Analogs (e.g., Ramelteon)
Combination sleep support targeting melatonin receptors; consult healthcare prov...
Sublingual Melatonin
Fast-acting sleep aid; place under tongue to dissolve.
Technical details â–¼
Chemical ID (CAS)
73-31-4
Formula
C13H16N2O2
Physical properties
Typically appears as white to off-white crystalline powder. Melatonin is sparingly soluble in water but soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and DMSO. Extended-release formulations are usually compressed into tablets or capsules with specialized coatings or matrices that control dissolution. The pure compound melts at approximately 116-118°C.
How it’s made
Extended-release melatonin is produced through pharmaceutical manufacturing processes. Synthetic melatonin (typically produced via chemical synthesis from starting materials like 5-methoxyindole) is blended with release-controlling excipients such as hydrophilic polymers (e.g., hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), waxes, or insoluble matrices. The mixture is then compressed into tablets or filled into capsules. Coating technologies may involve applying semi-permeable membranes or multiple layers that dissolve at different pH levels or times to achieve sustained release. Quality control ensures consistent release profiles.