Patient One Melatonin is available in a 3 mg gradual release delivery form as well as a 5 mg option to accommodate different needs and preferences.
A natural hormone synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan by the pineal gland, melatonin plays an important role as a regulator of sleep and the body’s daily biological rhythmic cycle —the sleep/wake cycle.
When taken before the onset of the natural melatonin secretion, melatonin can promote sleep. It is believed that melatonin potentiates the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) via direct interaction with GABA receptors, resulting in relaxation. Researchers have indicated that melatonin supports the quality of sleep as it relates to falling asleep, sleep efficiency (percent of healthy sleep to total time in bed) and awakening.
Melatonin is also an antioxidant, acting as an effective scavenger of free radicals. Studies suggest that melatonin also supports cardiovascular health and immune function.
Many factors can cause a decrease in natural melatonin levels, including aging—with some older adults making very small amounts or none at all—insufficient exposure to natural light, and certain medications. As melatonin is naturally activated by darkness and depressed by light, irregular schedules can disrupt its production. Supplementation with melatonin can offer benefits for the elderly, those with shift work hours or suffering from jet lag, and people who have difficulty falling asleep.