Is Sublingual Melatonin Better Than Other Sleep Supplements?

Sleep disorders, including insomnia, affect millions of people worldwide.

While there are many sleep supplements on the market that can help individuals get a good night's rest, finding the right sleep supplement can be challenging.
 

woman unable to sleep looking at sleeping pills

Sublingual melatonin is a unique sleep supplement that offers several benefits and has gained popularity in recent years. But what exactly is sublingual melatonin, and how does it differ from other supplements?

What Is Sublingual Melatonin?

Sublingual melatonin is a type of sleep supplement that's taken under the tongue and absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth. It allows the melatonin to bypass the digestive system and enter the bloodstream directly.

How Does Sublingual Melatonin Work?

Sublingual melatonin works by supplementing the body's natural levels of melatonin, a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain that regulates the sleep-wake cycle.

 

When melatonin levels rise in the evening, it signals to the body that it's time to sleep. When levels drop in the morning, it signals to the body that it's time to wake up.

 

Sublingual melatonin supplements help improve sleep quality and duration by promoting feelings of drowsiness, aiding in the onset of sleep and increasing the amount of time spent in deep sleep.

 

Benefits Of Sublingual Melatonin

Some of the benefits of sublingual melatonin over other sleep supplements include:

 

·       It works faster: Sublingual administration allows melatonin to bypass the digestive system and enter the bloodstream quickly, resulting in a quicker onset of action.

·        Lower dose required: As sublingual administration enters the bloodstream directly, a lower dose is required to achieve the desired effect.

·       Easy to take: For individuals who may have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules, this is a great alternative as it dissolves.

 

How To Take Sublingual Melatonin

 

Start with a low dose (0.3-1.2mg). Place one to two mini melts or four drops of liquid under your tongue and let it dissolve completely.

woman dripping melatonin sublingual under tongue before bedtime

Take the supplement approximately 30 minutes before bedtime. Make sure you take it at the same time every night to help regulate your body's internal clock.

 

Potential Risks And Side Effects Of Sublingual Melatonin

 

While sublingual melatonin is generally safe when taken as directed, like any supplement, it can cause side effects in some people. Some common side effects include:

 

  • Daytime drowsiness
  • Headaches
  • Nausea and dizziness
  • Irritability
  • Vivid dreams or nightmares

 

These side effects are generally mild and go away on their own. However, if you experience severe or persistent side effects, speak to a healthcare professional.

Taking Melatonin With Other Medicines

 

It's important to talk to your doctor before starting any new sleep supplement, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications that may interact with sublingual melatonin.

 

Examples of medications that may interact with melatonin include:

 

·       Sedatives and tranquilisers

·       Blood thinners

·       Antidepressants

 

Tip For Using Sublingual Melatonin

 

To get the most benefit from sublingual melatonin, here are our recommended lifestyle tips that can help improve your sleep naturally:

 

  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bedtime
  • Create a sleep-conducive environment
  • Limit screen time
  • Stick to a regular sleep schedule and create a bedtime routine
  • Manage stress
  • Exercise regularly

man still awake after 2am in bed

Is Sublingual Melatonin The Sleep Supplement For You?

 

Sublingual melatonin offers several advantages over other sleep supplements and can be a safe and effective option for people who have difficulty sleeping or maintaining a regular sleep-wake cycle. But, as with any medication or supplement, it's important to talk to a healthcare professional before using it.

If you'd like to know more about sublingual melatonin, check out our range or get in touch with our friendly team of compounding pharmacists.