PhysioLogics Melatonin 10 mg

Our assessment

The evidence shows that for a general audience seeking a sleep aid, a 10 mg dose of melatonin is significantly higher than the typical starting dose. Data for the specific ingredient “calcium” in this product indicates its primary role is in bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation, not sleep regulation [NIH ODS]. Our assessment is that you should approach this product with caution due to its high melatonin content, as the intended purpose of the supplement does not align with the mechanism of its key mineral ingredient.

How it works

Calcium works as a master regulator for your body’s structural and signaling systems. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, and it aids neuromuscular relaxation, which helps your muscles relax and nerves signal properly [NIH ODS]. Think of it as the mineral that keeps your bones strong and your muscles calm. Data not available on the specific mechanism of melatonin at this dosage from the provided sources.

Safety profile

FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all products. For calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High levels 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]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Data not available on side effects specific to a 10 mg dose of melatonin from the provided FDA data.

Our recommendation

Data not available to support a specific recommendation for this product. Due to the high 10 mg dose of melatonin and the lack of specific safety data for that dosage in the provided sources, you should consult your healthcare provider before using this supplement. If your goal is to support sleep, a much lower dose of melatonin is typically recommended. For bone health, a calcium supplement is better taken in divided doses of 500 mg or less with food [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