Sleep
Microactive® Melatonin
Also known as: melatonin, N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine, Microactive melatonin
Microactive® is a branded, micronized form of melatonin designed for enhanced absorption and faster onset. Melatonin is a well-researched natural hormone that regulates circadian rhythm and sleep-wake cycles.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Microactive® Melatonin product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thorne Melaton-3™ | 92 A | $0.27 |
| 2 | Thorne Melaton-5™ | 92 A | $0.37 |
| 3 | Pure Encapsulations Melatonin 3 mg | 92 A | $0.38 |
| 4 | Pure Encapsulations Melatonin-SR | 92 A | $0.38 |
| 5 | Pure Encapsulations Melatonin 20 mg | 92 A | $0.56 |
| 6 | Pure Encapsulations Melatonin liquid | 92 A | $1.23 |
| 7 | Pure Encapsulations Melatonin 0.5 mg | 92 A | $0.21 |
| 8 | Life Extension Fast-Acting Liquid Melatonin - Citrus-Vanilla | 92 A | $0.15 |
| 9 | NutraBio Melatonin (3mg) | 92 A | $0.14 |
| 10 | NOW Foods Extra Strength Melatonin | 91 A | $0.13 |
| 11 | NOW Foods Liquid Melatonin | 91 A | $0.11 |
| 12 | NOW Foods Melatonin | 91 A | $0.07 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Microactive® Melatonin should I take?
The typical range is 0.5-5 mg daily. Safe for long-term use; discontinue if effectiveness diminishes (rare tolerance)
When should I take Microactive® Melatonin?
30-60 minutes before bedtime. can be taken with or without food; food may slow absorption.
Which form of Microactive® Melatonin is best?
micronized tablet/capsule.
Is Microactive® Melatonin safe?
Commonly reported: drowsiness (intended), headache, dizziness, nausea, vivid dreams.
Which Microactive® Melatonin supplement scores highest?
Thorne Melaton-3™, at 92/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- sleep onset
- sleep quality
- circadian rhythm regulation
- jet lag
How it works
- MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptor agonism
- Circadian rhythm phase-shifting
- Increased sleep pressure via neurological pathways
- Antioxidant effects (secondary)
Dosage
- Typical range
- 0.5-5 mg daily
- Timing
- 30-60 minutes before bedtime
- With food
- can be taken with or without food; food may slow absorption
- Duration
- Safe for long-term use; discontinue if effectiveness diminishes (rare tolerance)
- Special populations
- Generally safe in children and elderly; pregnancy/nursing: consult physician; diabetics monitor glucose (melatonin may affect insulin sensitivity)
Forms
- micronized tablet/capsule· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- drowsiness (intended)
- headache
- dizziness
- nausea
- vivid dreams
Contraindications
- uncontrolled seizure disorder
- severe depression or bipolar disorder (may worsen symptoms)
- autoimmune disease (theoretical concern)
Products containing Microactive® Melatonin
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Microactive® Melatonin on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Melatonin has extensive RCT evidence for sleep onset and jet lag. Microactive® specifically claims improved bioavailability via micronization; standard melatonin is already well-established. The branded form is A-grade as melatonin is a foundational sleep ingredient with strong evidence.
Grade A: Multiple well-designed human trials support the main claims.
Cited research for Microactive® Melatonin
Clinical studies referenced across Formulate guides that mention microactive® melatonin. Each links to the full study page with PubMed source + the guides that cite it.
- Ferracioli-Oda E, Qawasmi A, Bloch MH (2013)PLOS ONE
Meta-analysis: melatonin for the treatment of primary sleep disorders
- Abbasi B, Kimiagar M, Sadeghniiat K, et al. (2012)Journal of Research in Medical Sciences
The effect of magnesium supplementation on primary insomnia in elderly: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial
- Wade AG, Ford I, Crawford G, et al. (2007)Current Medical Research and Opinion
Efficacy of prolonged release melatonin in insomnia patients aged 55–80 years: quality of sleep and next-day alertness outcomes
Related in Sleep
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.