Melatonin vs Magnesium

Melatonin has clearer use-specific evidence for selected timing problems; magnesium sleep evidence is more limited and population-specific.

Comparison point	Melatonin	Magnesium
Common purpose	Hormone-based circadian-timing ingredient	Essential mineral sometimes marketed for sleep
Evidence context	Melatonin has clearer use-specific evidence for selected timing problems; magnesium sleep evidence is more limited and population-specific.	Melatonin has clearer use-specific evidence for selected timing problems; magnesium sleep evidence is more limited and population-specific.
Common forms	Immediate-release and extended-release tablets, capsules, liquids, gummies, and sublingual products are common.	Glycinate, citrate, oxide, chloride, lactate and other salts
Important limitations	Evidence for one form, amount, population or outcome does not prove that every finished product works the same way.	Evidence for one form, amount, population or outcome does not prove that every finished product works the same way.
Safety context	Melatonin can cause drowsiness and timing effects; supplemental magnesium can cause gastrointestinal effects.	Melatonin can cause drowsiness and timing effects; supplemental magnesium can cause gastrointestinal effects.
Who should be cautious	Pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, seizure disorders, autoimmune conditions, or persistent insomnia warrant professional guidance.	People with kidney disease, unexplained weakness, heart-rhythm problems, or complex medication schedules should seek professional guidance before supplementing.

How they differ

Melatonin can cause drowsiness and timing effects; supplemental magnesium can cause gastrointestinal effects.

Read the exact product label and do not use this comparison as personal dosing advice.