Vitamer Laboratories Melatonin Plus 5 mg

Our assessment

The evidence shows that this product contains 5 mg of melatonin per serving. For general sleep support, starting doses of 0.5 mg to 3 mg are commonly studied, and 5 mg is a higher dose that may be appropriate for some individuals but is not necessary for everyone [NIH ODS]. Data on the specific "Plus" ingredients in this Vitamer Laboratories product is not available, so we cannot assess any additional components beyond the melatonin content.

How it works

Melatonin is a hormone your body naturally produces to regulate your sleep-wake cycle, known as your circadian rhythm. Taking a melatonin supplement can help signal to your brain that it is time to sleep, which may be useful for jet lag, shift work, or general sleep difficulties [NIH ODS]. Because the full ingredient list for this product is not provided, we cannot explain how any additional ingredients might contribute to this effect.

Safety profile

Data on side effects for this specific product is not available from the provided FDA data [FDA data]. In general, melatonin is considered safe for short-term use. Common side effects at higher doses can include headache, dizziness, nausea, and drowsiness the next day [NIH ODS]. Because the exact composition of this "Plus" formula is unknown, we cannot comment on additional risks from other ingredients.

Our recommendation

We recommend starting with a lower melatonin dose, such as 1 mg to 3 mg, taken 30 to 60 minutes before bed. If you choose to use this 5 mg product, consider starting with half a tablet if possible. Always consult your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you have a medical condition or take other medications [NIH ODS]. Data not available to recommend this specific "Plus" formulation over standard melatonin products.

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