Meta Information

ID:microdose-time-release-melatonin

Name:Melatonin

Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

• SR Melatonin
• Low-Dose Melatonin
• Physiological-Dose Melatonin

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:

5

High Cost:

20

Cost Type:

monthly

Description:

Widely available over-the-counter supplement; costs vary by brand and formulation.

Summary

Melatonin is a crucial hormone for regulating the circadian rhythm, and its natural production declines significantly with age. A low-dose, time-release formulation aims to restore youthful physiological levels, improving sleep quality and duration. Beyond sleep, melatonin is a potent mitochondrial antioxidant, protecting against oxidative stress and supporting cellular energy production, which are key factors in mitigating age-related decline.

Purpose

Restores youthful circadian rhythm and provides potent antioxidant protection.

Card Summary

A low-dose, sustained-release formulation of the sleep hormone melatonin, intended to mimic youthful physiological levels to improve sleep quality, support mitochondrial health, and provide antioxidant benefits.

Drug Class

melatonergic-agonist

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:

5.5

Justification:

Improves crucial sleep quality and provides antioxidant support, but direct longevity effects are unproven.

Evidence

Grade:

B

Score:

6.5

Justification:

Strong human data for sleep regulation; emerging evidence for antioxidant and mitochondrial benefits.

Safety

Score:

3

Justification:

Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) with a wide safety margin at low doses.

Flags

• Higher doses (>1mg) can suppress natural production and cause next-day grogginess.
• May interact with blood thinners, immunosuppressants, diabetes medications, and blood pressure drugs.
• Quality and dosage can vary significantly between unregulated supplement brands.
• Avoid taking during the day as it can disrupt the natural circadian rhythm.

Verdict

A potentially valuable tool for optimizing sleep and antioxidant status.

Created

2026-04-26T16:41:49.970681Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:

oral

Scope:

• systemic

Indication

Focus:

healthspan

Description:

Melatonin is a crucial hormone for regulating the circadian rhythm, and its natural production declines significantly with age. A low-dose, time-release formulation aims to restore youthful physiologi...

Typical Protocol

• Take 300 mcg to 1 mg via a sustained-release formulation 30-60 minutes before bedtime.
• Start with the lowest effective dose to support natural sleep architecture without causing grogginess.