Natrol Melatonin Calm Sleep Strawberry Natural Flavor

Our assessment

The evidence shows that this product contains calcium as its primary active ingredient. While calcium is essential for health, you should be aware of the specific benefits and risks tied to this mineral. Our assessment is that calcium supplements can be beneficial for bone health, but they require careful consideration regarding dosage and potential interactions with your other medications [NIH ODS].

How it works

Think of calcium as a building block and a messenger for your body. It works primarily through two mechanisms: Bone mineralization, where it supports bone density and mineral deposition, and Neuromuscular relaxation, where it supports muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. This means it plays a critical role in keeping your skeleton strong and your muscles functioning properly.

Safety profile

Based on FDA data, there are 592,059 total adverse event reports on file for this product's ingredient category [FDA data]. The safety profile for calcium includes important risks. High levels of calcium in the blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Some research also suggests that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS].

Our recommendation

Before taking this product, you should review any medications you are currently using. Calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Data not available on the specific amount of calcium in this product, so you cannot calculate your total daily intake. Our recommendation is to consult your doctor or pharmacist to ensure this supplement is safe for you, especially if you take any of the listed medications or have a history of kidney problems or heart disease [NIH ODS].

Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:

• Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
• Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
• % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
• Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
• Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.

Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide