Natural Factors Stress-Relax Melatonin 10 mg

Our assessment

The evidence shows that a 10 mg melatonin supplement is a high dose, typically used for short-term sleep regulation. For this specific product, detailed data on the melatonin ingredient itself is not provided, but general supplement safety principles apply. Based on the data for calcium (a common co-ingredient in some supplements), high intakes can lead to serious health risks, though this product's label lists melatonin as the primary ingredient [NIH ODS].

How it works

Melatonin is a hormone your body naturally produces to regulate your sleep-wake cycle. While specific data on melatonin is not available here, the general mechanism involves signaling to your brain that it is time to sleep. A 10 mg dose is considered a high pharmacological amount, often used for specific sleep disorders or shift work, rather than general insomnia [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements, but specific report counts for this product or melatonin alone are not provided. For the calcium data available, side effects from high intake include constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, and abnormal heart rhythms [NIH ODS] [FDA data]. It is important to note that melatonin at high doses can cause drowsiness, headache, and dizziness, though these specific side effects are not in the provided data set.

Our recommendation

Data not available for a specific recommendation on this exact product. However, as a general rule, start with the lowest effective dose of melatonin (typically 0.5 mg to 3 mg) and only increase under medical guidance. A 10 mg dose is high and should be used only for short-term, specific needs. Consult your healthcare provider before starting, especially if you have a medical condition or take other medications [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