Typical dose
0.5 mg to 5 mg taken 30-60 minutes before bedtim...
Oral
Oral safety: very low
About this supplement
Immediate-release melatonin is the standard pharmaceutical formulation of the endogenous hormone N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine, designed for rapid dissolution and absorption following oral administration. Unlike extended-release forms, it delivers the entire dose quickly, producing a sharp peak in plasma concentration within 30-60 minutes to mimic the natural nocturnal rise of melatonin, thereby primarily signaling the onset of sleep. It is metabolized primarily in the liver via CYP1A2 enzymes and has a short half-life of approximately 20-50 minutes. This form is most commonly used for sleep onset difficulties and circadian rhythm phase shifts.
How much to take
- Typical amount
- 0.5 mg to 5 mg taken 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Lower doses (0.5-1 mg) are often used for circadian phase shifting, while 3-5 mg is common for sleep initiation.
- Suggested range
- 0.5 mg - 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
Extended-Release/Sustained-Release Melatonin
Extended-release formulation for sleep maintenance. Take 30-60 minutes before be...
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 a white to off-white crystalline powder. Practically insoluble in water, soluble in ethanol and DMSO. Melts at approximately 117°C.
How it’s made
Commercially produced almost exclusively via chemical synthesis. A common synthetic route involves the alkylation of 5-methoxyindole with a haloacetonitrile derivative, followed by hydrolysis and acetylation to form N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine. This process ensures high purity and consistency, free from biological contaminants.