NOW Melatonin 3 mg
Brand: NOW · Form: LOZENGE [E0174]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that melatonin is a popular supplement for sleep support, but the data for this specific product is limited to the FDA adverse event database. Our assessment is that while melatonin is widely used, you should be aware of safety signals from the total reported adverse events, which number 592,059 reports [FDA data].
How it works
Think of melatonin as a sleep signal for your body. It helps regulate your circadian rhythm, telling your brain that it is time to rest. The 3 mg dose in this product is a common starting amount for supporting sleep onset [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Data not available for specific side effects from this product. The FDA data includes 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplements, but specific side effect breakdowns for this melatonin product are not provided [FDA data]. General safety information for the active ingredient, calcium, is not applicable here as the product is melatonin, not calcium. For calcium, high intakes are linked to risks such as constipation, nausea, and abnormal heart rhythms [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start with a low dose and take it 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. Because the data does not provide specific side effects for this product, you should monitor your own response carefully. Consult your doctor before use, especially if you take other medications, as calcium (a different ingredient) can reduce the absorption of bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, and levothyroxine [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 90.0 Lozenge(s) |
| Market Status | Off Market |
How to Read This Label
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