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Best Melatonin Gummies – Tested By Our Experts 

Sleepopolis may earn a commission on sales through our affiliate links in this article. This commission allows us to run our testing lab and continue to bring our readers the most comprehensive information on sleep and related products. See our disclosures.

We’ve all had those restless nights — tossing and turning, anxiously watching the minutes tick toward your alarm. That’s when you might start searching for the best melatonin supplements and realize you prefer a gummy. But there’s more to consider than just the dose: A good gummy needs to taste great, chew easily, and fit into your bedtime routine.

As a registered dietitian, I evaluated several gummy formulations and looked at clean ingredients, effective melatonin doses, added sugars, and other research-backed nutrients and botanicals that support sleep. But taste, chew, and real-world effects matter just as much, so I leaned on Sleepopolis’s team of testers for firsthand feedback on side effects, texture, and flavor. After all, a gummy that’s hard to chew or makes your nose scrunch up isn’t one you’ll actually want in your medicine cabinet.

Our team has reviewed hundreds of sleep accessories and supplements, and helped nearly 132,000 shoppers find their new favorite product. Every melatonin gummy in our list was selected based on our testers’ hands-on experiences, with added insight from our chief medical advisor, Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM.

Whether you’re a shift worker, international traveler, or just someone who wants a better night’s rest, this guide will help you find the best melatonin gummies for you. Let’s tuck into it! 

The 7 Best Melatonin Gummies of 2025

Disclaimer: Please note that the content in this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or serve as a substitute for seeing a medical professional regarding any sleep problems you may have. Please see your doctor regarding any urgent medical issues.

What I Looked for in the Best Melatonin Gummies

To find the best melatonin gummies, I combined my expertise as a registered dietitian with insights from sleep experts and first-hand testers following our review methodology. We evaluated each gummy not only on how well it supported sleep, but also on how practical and enjoyable it was to take consistently. Every product was scored on a 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) scale across key categories:

  • Formulation: Is the formulation intentional, and is the ingredient list mostly “clean,” with minimal added sugars, artificial ingredients, or unnecessary additives?
  • Ease of consumption: Are the gummies easy to chew and swallow? Do they have a pleasant texture that’s the perfect balance of soft and chewy, or are they sticky and too tough?
  • Taste: Are the gummies flavorful, or at least tasty enough to take? Is there a bitter aftertaste?
  • Side effects: How well does the supplement help you fall — and stay — asleep? Are there any unwanted effects, such as grogginess, digestive issues, or restlessness?
  • Third-party testing: Since dietary supplements aren’t regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has an independent lab verified that the label matches what’s actually in the melatonin? Is the company transparent, sharing test results online and avoiding proprietary blends?
  • Value: Is the supplement effective enough to justify its cost per serving? Are there options to save with subscriptions or bulk purchases?

Olly Sleep Blackberry Zen – Best Melatonin Gummy Overall

Olly Sleep

Olly Sleep

Olly Sleep’s chewable melatonin supplements rely on high-quality ingredients and a flavor of blackberry infused with mint.

Sleepopolis Score
4.10 / 5
Pros
Well-rounded formula with melatonin plus calming botanicals like L-theanine, chamomile, passionflower, and lemon balm
Flexible dosing, as users can start with 1 gummy for 1.5 mg or take 2 for the full 3 mg
Third-party tested through NSF
Cons
Higher price per serving compared to competitors
Some may notice a medicinal taste at first

Olly Sleep Blackberry Zen takes the top spot as the best melatonin gummy overall, thanks to its unique yet research-backed formula and strong brand reputation. Each two-gummy serving provides 3 milligrams of melatonin, along with sleep-supporting and calming botanicals like L-theanine1, chamomile2, passionflower3, and lemon balm4

Expert tester Livvi DiCicco shares that while she personally takes higher doses of melatonin, she appreciates how these gummies make it easy to start low and adjust over time. And with only 2 grams of added sugar per two-gummy serving, these are lighter than many competitors, earning a 5 out of 5 in this category. 

Our tester holds out her hands holding Olly Sleep gummies

Plus, Livvi, a self-described insomniac, reported falling asleep quickly after taking them on more than one occasion. Even on nights when sleep didn’t come easily, she woke up refreshed rather than groggy, rating side effects a 5 out of 5.

Taste comes in at 4 out of 5, with Livvi noting the blackberry flavor starts a bit medicinal but quickly mellows into something enjoyable. After taking these on a regular basis, she noticed the medicinal note less. 

Livvi also found them fairly easy to chew without being too gummy, but cautions, “They don’t really dissolve, so you do have to chomp them down into tiny pieces before you swallow, which I’m pretty sure it recommends on the bottle.” However, despite Livvi having issues with texture, and preferences can vary, she rated the gummies a 4 out of 5 for swallowability. 

Quality is another strong point: Olly is NSF-certified, adding a layer of trust and safety, thus leading to a perfect 5 out of 5 for third-party testing. At about $0.66 per serving, Olly scores 3.5 out of 5 for price, with added value in the brand’s reliability and the option to stretch your dollar with just one gummy.

Future Kind Vegan Melatonin Sleep Gummies provide a comparable melatonin dose — 2.5 milligrams per gummy or 5 milligrams with two — for those who prefer a simple formula without added botanicals.

Future Kind Vegan Melatonin Sleep Gummies – Best Tasting Melatonin Gummy 

Future Kind Vegan Melatonin Sleep Gummies

Future Kind Vegan Melatonin Sleep Gummies

These delicious gummies are vegan and cruelty-free, and provide dosing flexibility for those who are sensitive or new to melatonin supplementation.

Pros
Noticeable blueberry flavor without being overly sweet
Flexible dosing (2.5 mg with one gummy or 5 mg with two)
Vegan, cruelty-free brand with a strong focus on sustainability
Cons
Higher sugar content compared to some competitors
Price is on the higher end unless using half servings

Future Kind Vegan Melatonin Sleep Gummies stand out as the best-tasting melatonin gummy we tested, especially for those who don’t want an overly sweet bite at night. Our tester, Cait Giddings, gave them a 4 out of 5 for taste, saying, “I wouldn’t say these gummies taste like candy, but they’re pretty good and the blueberry flavor comes through. I looked forward to taking one.”

The texture was also a high point. Cait shared, “These gummies don’t have that super-soft pectin consistency — they’re a bit chewier than that — but they’re not tough or hard to break down. I had no trouble chewing them,” earning a 4 out of 5 for swallowability.

Future Kind Vegan Melatonin Sleep Gummies

Each two-gummy serving delivers 5 milligrams of melatonin and 3 grams of added sugar, along with natural flavors and colors, ultimately scoring a 3 out of 5 formulation rating. The full serving costs about $0.63, but Cait noted that she usually took half a serving (one gummy), which made the price feel more reasonable and also allowed for a smaller 2.5-milligram dose.

Even at half the dose, the gummies were effective. Cait reported, “I fell asleep within 15 minutes of a half-dose, slept through the night, and woke up without grogginess,” leading to a perfect 5 out of 5 for side effects.

Regarding independent testing, Cait noted, “I don’t see any information from NSF or Informed Sport testing, but Future Kind does post its full third-party test results from Dyad Labs.” While these Certificates of Analysis cover contaminants, they don’t confirm label accuracy or banned-substance testing, giving third-party testing a 3 out of 5.

On a positive note, customer service impressed Cait, who rated this category a 5 out of 5. She shares, “I had no trouble ordering or contacting the company. They have a full 30-day money-back guarantee and seem very committed to sustainability and cruelty-free practices.”

If you’d rather get your full 5-milligram dose from a single gummy, Natrol Melatonin is a strong pick — and one that’s easier on the wallet.

Lunakai Low Dose Melatonin Gummies – Best Low-Dose Melatonin Gummy

Lunakai Low Dose Melatonin Gummies

Lunakai Low Dose Melatonin Gummies

This low-dose melatonin gummy is perfect for those who only want or need a little help, and also for those who have more difficulty waking up after using melatonin.

Pros
Gentle 1 mg dose, which is ideal for beginners or those sensitive to melatonin
Vegan, gelatin-free, and made with organic sweeteners
Lower sugar content than other brands 
Cons
Limited transparency around third-party testing 
Slightly higher price at ~$0.42 per serving unless using subscribe-and-save

Lunakai Low Dose Melatonin Gummies secures our pick for the best low-dose option thanks to its gentle 1 milligram of melatonin per gummy — ideal for beginners or anyone easing into melatonin. 

Although results may differ from person to person, tester Cait Giddings found the lower dose easier to tolerate. “Each gummy only has 1 milligram of melatonin, which is my preferred low dose because it doesn’t hit me like a train and leave me with psychedelic dreams and morning confusion,” she said, giving the gummies a 5 out of 5 for side effects. “I fell asleep pretty quickly after every time I took one of these, with no issues throughout the night or in the morning.” 

A bottle of Lunakai Low-dose Melatonin Gummies

Formulation earns another 5 out of 5, with vegan, gelatin-free, and non-GMO ingredients and organic sweeteners. And the sweetest part (ironically)? There’s less than 1 gram of added sugar per gummy, much lower than most competitors.

Reviews for these gummies average 4.2 stars on Amazon, with some users noting changes in taste, but Cait’s 2025 test confirmed they remain enjoyable. She rated taste a 4 out of 5 for its pleasant strawberry flavor, while swallowability received a perfect 5 out of 5. She notes, “They have that soft, pectin consistency that really elevates a gummy to Albanese-tier.” #IYKYK

Third-party testing is where Lunakai falls short, scoring 3 out of 5. The brand mentions outside testing, but there’s no indication it’s from trusted verifiers like NSF or Informed Sport. Price also lands at a 3 out of 5 — about $0.42 per serving — though subscribe-and-save discounts make the gummies more budget-friendly. 

If 1 milligram isn’t enough for your needs, Olly offers a 3-milligram option with botanicals for added sleep support.

Just Nutrients Melatonin Gummies – Best High-Dose Melatonin Gummy

Just Nutrients Melatonin Gummies

Just Nutrients Melatonin Gummies

These melatonin gummies are ideal for someone who needs a higher dose of melatonin.

Pros
High-dose support with flexibility to take 10 or 20 mg of melatonin
Vegan-friendly and free from artificial ingredients
Candy-like flavor with a soft texture
Cons
Its high dose may be more than many users need 
Higher sugar content at 4 g per two-gummy serving compared to other options
Limited transparency around third-party testing

Just Nutrients Melatonin Gummies is our pick for the best high-dose melatonin gummy, packing 20 milligrams of melatonin per serving with solid customer reviews. Our tester, Kenny Timper, found them effective for quickly getting into sleep, saying, “I took these every night for a month and they knocked me out pretty fast. I don’t think the 20 milligrams boosted this gummy to Zzzquil levels, but it worked as well as any other high-quality melatonin I’ve tried (Thorne’s, for example).”

A quick note on melatonin dosage: Melatonin has no standardized dose in the U.S., but research5 supports, and sleep experts generally agree, to start low — around 0.3 to 0.5 milligrams — and see how your body responds. Most benefits appear between 3 and 5 milligrams, while higher doses6 — like the 20 milligrams in these gummies — may be used for stronger sleep support, though it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional to limit and avoid side effects. 

That said, in our testing, despite the high 20-milligram dose, Kenny and other online users found the side effects to be generally mild. Some people noted minimal impact or slight grogginess, but most fell asleep quickly without excessive drowsiness, resulting in a 4 out of 5 rating in this category. 

For those who prefer a gentler option, the two-gummy serving offers flexibility: Taking just one provides 10 milligrams of melatonin — still high for many, but less intense than 20 milligrams — and cuts the added sugar from 4 grams to 2 grams per serving. Vegan-friendly and free from artificial ingredients, the formulation scores a 3 out of 5.

Supplement Facts on a Bottle of Just Nutrients Melatonin Gummies
Supplement Facts on a bottle of Just Nutrients Melatonin Gummies.

Taste is a highlight, earning a 5 out of 5 rating from Kenny. “Despite being too sweet for me personally, they don’t have that nasty medicinal sweetness that a lot of gummy supplements have,” Kenny mused. “They taste like Scooby Doo Fruit Snacks or something. Is it on the same level as Gushers? No. But they taste fine and knock you out.” He also found them to be soft and easy to chew, leading to a perfect 5 out of 5 for swallowability.

Third-party testing is limited, though the gummies are manufactured in FDA-, NSF-, and GMP-compliant labs. Price is reasonable at about $0.42 per gummy, and customer service is straightforward via Amazon. Online reviews are strong, averaging 4.6 out of 5 across roughly 4,000 ratings.

For a more budget-friendly pick that doesn’t skimp on strength, Nutricost Melatonin Gummies deliver 10 milligrams per gummy at a fraction of the cost.

Vicks Pure Zzz Kids – Best Melatonin Gummy for Kids

Vick’s Pure ZZZ Kids

Vick's Pure ZZZ Kids

Child-friendly gummies containing 0.5 mg of melatonin and calming botanicals for easy sleep.

Sleepopolis Score
4.10 / 5
Pros
Gentle 1 mg melatonin dose per two-gummy serving, so it’s easy to adjust by starting with one gummy
Includes chamomile and lavender for added calming and sleep support
Kid-approved fruity flavor and soft, chewy texture
Cons
Contains 5 g of added sugar per serving, plus food dyes and common allergens (soy, coconut)
Limited transparency around third-party testing

Vicks Pure Zzzs Kidz earns best melatonin gummy for kids thanks to its gentle 1-milligram dose of melatonin per two-gummy serving. The low dose makes it easy to start small — sometimes with just one gummy instead of two.

Just note that you should consult a pediatrician before giving your child a supplement like melatonin. “There is research showing that melatonin can be beneficial for children with autism or ADHD who have sleep disruption,” said Dr. Shelby Harris, a licensed clinical psychologist. “That being said, we just don’t have research on its use routinely in the general child population. If you are considering using melatonin with your child, always discuss this with your doctor first as there might be another effective solution that doesn’t require the use of medications or supplements.”

A bottle of Vick's Pure ZZZ Kids next to a gummy on a child's nightstand.

The Pure Zzzs formula also includes chamomile and lavender for added calming support, though it contains 5 grams of added sugar, food dyes, and common allergens such as soy and coconut. Our tester, Cait Giddings, notes, “It’s a gummy for kids who probably otherwise wouldn’t want to take something, so it’s packaged as more of a candy than medicine,” giving the formulation a 1 out of 5.

Although not nutritionally ideal, the candy-like approach works. Cait’s 7-year-old tester described the gummies as “little bouncy pillows” with a fruity flavor she didn’t want to stop eating, earning a perfect 5 out of 5 for taste and swallowability. Within 10 minutes of her serving, she was noticeably drowsy and fell asleep soon after, with no adverse reactions, resulting in another 5 out of 5 for side effects.

For third-party testing, Cait notes, “Vicks says its product is approved by the FDA, but I couldn’t find information about the testing from the NSF or Informed Sport.” While Vicks seems reputable, independent third-party certifications from trusted organizations like NSF aren’t listed, giving third-party testing a 4 out of 5.

Although open products can’t be returned, it’s unlikely you’ll need to worry. These gummies hold a 4.8-star rating on Amazon from over 10,000 reviews, and as Cait notes, “Like us, online testers found the product to be effective and tasty.”

Lunakai Low Dose Melatonin Gummies provide 1 milligram of melatonin, making them a good alternative if your child doesn’t need the added botanicals.

Natrol Melatonin 5 mg – Best 5 mg Melatonin Gummy

Natrol Melatonin 5 mg

Natrol Melatonin 5 mg

These affordable high-dose melatonin gummies are vegetarian and third-party tested.

Pros
Higher-dose option with 5 mg of melatonin in one gummy
Vegetarian, gelatin-free, IGEN Non-GMO tested, and free of common allergens (milk, wheat, egg)
Third-party-tested through NSF
Great value at just $0.11 per serving
Cons
5 mg may be too much for beginners or those sensitive to melatonin
Opened bottles cannot be returned

Natrol Melatonin earns our top spot as the best 5-milligram gummy thanks to a potent yet approachable dose. For adults who find 1 to 3 milligrams insufficient, this candy-like option may help, though sleep expert Dr. Shelby Harris notes, “Anything more than 3  milligrams of melatonin is considered a hefty dose. If you need to keep taking more and more, it isn’t working.”

A handful of Natrol Melatonin Gummies
A handful of Natrol Melatonin Gummies.

In our tester Cait Giddings’ experience, one gummy helped her fall asleep within five minutes. “I typically only use 1 milligram of melatonin, so this gummy hit me like a train and I slept solidly throughout the night,” she noted. “I didn’t experience any grogginess when I woke up this morning, but I’m also pretty used to melatonin because I take it nightly to prevent sleepwalking.” She rated side effects a perfect 5 out of 5.

Alongside the 5 milligrams of melatonin, each gummy provides 10 calories and just 1 gram of added sugar — a lower amount than many competitors. They’re also vegetarian, gelatin-free, IGEN Non-GMO tested, and free of common allergens like milk and egg, making the formulation both accessible for many dietary needs. 

Taste and texture are another highlight, earning a perfect 5 out of 5s in these categories. Cait described them as “a delicious strawberry candy” and admitted she had to resist snacking on one in the middle of the afternoon. The plant-based pectin gives them a soft consistency that’s easy to chew and swallow, “like fancy jelly candy that’s been kept in a warm cabinet.”

Natrol sweetens the deal with its quality and value, with perfect 5 out of 5 scores for third-party testing and price. The gummies undergo independent testing through NSF International, while still offering a strong value at just $0.11 per serving.

If you or someone in your household wants to adjust the dose, Future Kind Vegan Melatonin Sleep Gummies provide 5 milligrams of melatonin for two gummies or 2.5 milligrams for one.

Nutricost Melatonin Gummies – Best Cheap Melatonin Gummy

Nutricost Melatonin Gummy

Nutricost Melatonin Gummy

These strawberry-flavored gummies are easily chewable and designed to offer deeper sleep.

Sleepopolis Score
3.90 / 5
Pros
Budget-friendly high-dose option at roughly $0.10 per serving
Potent 10 mg melatonin per gummy for strong sleep support
Widely available with solid customer reviews averaging ~4.2 stars
Cons
One gummy serving is difficult to split if 10 mg is too strong for some users
Slightly sticky texture that may adhere to teeth

Nutricost Melatonin Gummies are one of the most affordable options available, costing about $0.10 per serving depending on whether you purchase from Amazon or directly from Nutricost. Each gummy delivers a potent 10 milligrams of melatonin, making them ideal for users who need strong sleep support without a big hit to the wallet.

While an affordable option for many, it’s important to note that not everyone will have the same experience with such a high dose. Expert tester Kate Meier found it a bit too intense, sharing, “I was very lethargic the next morning. I don’t often take melatonin, and if I do, it’s 3 milligrams or less, so 10 milligrams knocked me out,” resulting in a 3 out of 5 rating for side effects.

Comparing the size of a Nutricost Melatonin Gummy with a dime
Comparing the size of a Nutricost Melatonin Gummy with a dime.

Although others share similar experiences as Kate, customer reviews hold quite strong. They average around 4.2 out of 5 across Amazon (4.4) and Nutricost’s website (4.0), underscoring differences in how people respond to melatonin.  

As for taste, Kate rated them a 4 out of 5, explaining, “These aren’t the best-tasting gummies I’ve ever had, but they are pretty good!” While there’s a slight medicinal note, the strawberry flavor comes through as unmistakably “strawberry-ish.” Kate also mentions that the gummies stick slightly to the teeth, but appreciates the chewy texture over a soft one, giving solubility and swallowability a 4.5 out of 5. 

The formulation is where the gummies fall short. Kate rated it a 1 out of 5 due to “a long list of not-great ingredients in here, like glucose syrup, sugar, glucose, pectin, glycerin, and vegetable oil. Eep!” The ingredients are also plant-based, though the product doesn’t claim to be vegan-friendly.

Third-party testing could also use some improvements. While Nutricost claims its products undergo third-party testing, there’s no indication of an NSF-type certification. 

But to end on a positive note, customer service shines with a 5 out of 5 rating. Kate shares, “Nutricost offers a 60-day money-back guarantee with the cost fully refunded other than shipping and handling. In general, we’ve worked with Nutricost a lot and don’t have any issues with them as a company.

Natrol Melatonin 5 mg is a high-value alternative for those who want a stronger dose without going as high as the 10 milligrams in Nutricost Melatonin Gummies.

Other Melatonin Gummies We Considered

These are some melatonin gummies that almost made our main panel, but didn’t quite make the cut. However, some users might not want to sleep on them.

Nature Made Melatonin Gummies

Nature Made Melatonin Gummy Maximum Strength formula delivers 10 milligrams per two-gummy serving and is USP-verified for quality. We didn’t include it in the main roundup because we already featured high-dose options that meet the needs of those requiring stronger melatonin, and other choices offered lower sugar and better value. 

Zarbee’s Children’s Sleep and Immune Gummies

Each gummy provides 1 milligram of melatonin along with immune-supporting ingredients like zinc, vitamin C, vitamin D3, and black elderberry — especially useful if your child has a cold. However, your child may not need the extra nutrient if they’re not sick, and zinc can cause an upset stomach. Also since one serving is a full gummy, splitting it to reduce the melatonin dose limits the other beneficial ingredients.

How We Picked and Tested These Melatonin Gummies

We’re sleep experts, dietitians, and health professionals on a mission to bring people the best sleep tools for a solid night’s rest and overall well-being. We selected and tested melatonin gummies through hands-on experience and thorough evaluation, considering key criteria such as formulation, price, overall effectiveness, and more.

Price

Melatonin gummies can be helpful for better sleep, but their cost shouldn’t leave you tossing and turning at night. That said,  we included a range of price points to accommodate different budgets while evaluating each product’s value based on price per serving.

Formulation

When selecting melatonin gummy formulations, we focused on both dosage and ingredient quality. Because sleep needs vary, we looked for products that offer a range of melatonin strengths, plus options that fit different dietary preferences like vegan or gluten-free. When other sleep-supporting herbs — such as chamomile, passionflower, or L-theanine — were included, we favored evidence-based dosages.

We also prioritized gummies with minimal added sugar and avoided products with artificial colors, unnecessary additives, or proprietary blends that limit transparency.

Looking at the other side label on a tub of Natrol Melatonin Gummies
Some brands have higher standards than others when it comes to sourcing ingredients.

Taste and Swallowability

Because melatonin gummies are chewed rather than swallowed whole like sleeping pills, both taste and texture play a big role in how enjoyable they are to take. A gummy that’s overly sticky, tough, or leaves a medicinal aftertaste can be off-putting, while one with a pleasant flavor that’s easy to chew adds to the routine. 

All to say, we focused on flavor, chewability, and overall ease of consumption, with higher marks given to gummies that balanced sweetness and texture without being cloying or difficult to eat.

Side Effects 

Melatonin gummies should support restful sleep, not leave you groggy or uncomfortable the next day. We monitored for common side effects of melatonin — such as morning drowsiness, vivid dreams, or stomach upset — all of which tended to depend on the dose, although individual responses can vary. 

Third-Party Testing

olly kids sleep gummies and label
Looking at the other side label on a tub of Natrol Melatonin Gummies.

As Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, explains, “Melatonin is considered a dietary supplement, so it’s not regulated by the FDA in the United States, which means there’s no guarantee that the ingredients or dosage on the label are entirely accurate.”

Independent third-party testing adds reassurance that the gummies contain what they claim, and nothing else. When selecting the highest-quality melatonin gummies, we prioritize certifications from reputable organizations such as NSF, USP, and Informed Choice.

What to Consider When Buying Melatonin Gummies

Choosing the right melatonin gummy begins with understanding how it works and finding a product that supports your sleep goals and lifestyle. Here are the key factors to keep in mind.

How Melatonin Works

Melatonin7 might be one of the most popular sleep supplements, but it’s also a naturally occurring hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. In the evening, natural melatonin production rises to signal that it’s time to sleep, peaks during the night to help maintain restful sleep, and drops in the morning to promote wakefulness.

Melatonin supplements mimic the hormone’s natural response, helping people regulate their circadian rhythm and improve sleep quality, whether they’re night-shift workers, frequent travelers, or struggle with insomnia. These over-the-counter supplements are available in various forms like capsules, tablets, and liquids, but many people prefer chewable gummies for their ease of use or simply for a tastier, more enjoyable way to take melatonin.

How to Choose the Best Melatonin Gummies

Choosing melatonin gummies isn’t just about grabbing the first bottle you see — things like dosage, formulation, flavor, and quality testing all play a role in finding the right fit for your sleep routine.

  • Amount of melatonin: Especially if new to melatonin, it’s best to start low and gradually increase if needed, as higher doses can cause grogginess or vivid dreams. Starting with 1 to 3 milligrams allows you to gauge how your body responds.
  • Formulation: Check the ingredients carefully, particularly if you have dietary restrictions. Options that are vegan, gelatin-free, or allergen-friendly are available, and it’s best to choose gummies with minimal added sugars, artificial colors, or preservatives. If the formula includes additional active ingredients, such as magnesium or botanicals, ensure they are included in safe and effective amounts tailored to your needs.
  • Flavor and texture: Gummies should be something you look forward to (or at least don’t mind) taking, but since you can’t sample them before buying, lean on roundups like this one and customer reviews for guidance. Taste and texture vary widely — some are candy-like and fruity, while others lean more medicinal or sticky — so try to find a flavor you’ll actually enjoy.
  • Third-party certifications: If you’re a competitive athlete or simply want a reliable product, choose gummies that have undergone third-party testing by reputable organizations like NSF or Informed Sport. This ensures the supplement contains what it claims and is free from banned substances and contaminants.

Who Should Take Melatonin Gummies

Pouring out a bottle of Nutricost Melatonin Gummies
Our tester pouring out a bottle of Nutricost Melatonin Gummies.

Melatonin may be helpful for those looking to support sleep or adjust their sleep-wake cycle, including5:

  • Adults experiencing occasional insomnia, jet lag, or irregular schedules from shift work
  • Children or teens with specific sleep disorders8—such as delayed sleep phase, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder
  • Older adults9 with reduced natural melatonin production, using low doses and immediate-release formulations

“In all cases here, talk with your doctor before starting melatonin since it isn’t for everyone, and there can routinely be side effects — dizziness, daytime sedation, vivid dreams and nightmares, nausea to name a few,” stresses Dr. Shelby Harris.

Who Should Not Take Melatonin Gummies

Anyone seeking a long-term sleep solution should use melatonin with caution, as it’s generally intended for short-term use unless advised by a healthcare provider. Dr. Shelby Harris explains, “Some people suggest that long-term use makes your own brain reduce its natural melatonin production, but the reality is that this hasn’t been routinely proven in research. We just don’t have long-term data for its use.”

Certain groups should avoid melatonin or use it only under medical supervision, including5:

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women
  • Children and older adults
  • People taking prescription medications
  • Those with autoimmune conditions or organ transplants
  • Individuals with liver or kidney issues

For these groups — or anyone preferring non-supplement solutions — work with a sleep expert and focus on consistent sleep schedules, stress-reducing practices, and daily exposure to natural light to naturally improve sleep without relying on melatonin.

FAQs

Is melatonin safe for pregnant women?

Because research on how melatonin affects fetal development is limited, pregnant women should avoid self-prescribing. Instead, it’s best to work with a healthcare provider to find safe, effective strategies for improving sleep.

Which is better, Olly or Natrol melatonin?

The better melatonin gummy depends on your goals, budget, and personal preferences. Olly offers 3 milligrams of melatonin with added calming botanicals and a blackberry flavor, though it comes at a higher price (about $0.66 per serving). Natrol delivers 5 milligrams of melatonin in a single strawberry gummy at a much lower cost (roughly $0.11 per serving). Both are NSF certified, so quality and safety are backed by third-party testing.

Ultimately, Olly is a strong choice for those seeking a gentler dose with extra relaxation ingredients. If you prioritize simplicity, higher potency, and value, Natrol is the more cost-effective option.

Which melatonin is more effective?

The most effective melatonin is the one that meets your unique needs, starting with the right dose and a form you’ll actually take. For most adults, typical dosages range from 1 to 3 milligrams, though some may need more or less. Since supplements vary widely, it’s best to start low and choose a product that’s third-party tested for purity, safety, and quality.

Can children take melatonin?

Children should only take melatonin under medical supervision. Because research on its safety in kids is limited, organizations like the American Academy of Sleep Medicine caution against routine use. Pediatric sleep experts generally recommend addressing the root causes of sleep issues before considering supplements.

References

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