Skip to main content
All Comparisons

Glycine vs Melatonin

Evidence-based comparison from our database of 3,862 ingredients

TL;DR

Glycine is typically chosen for sleep quality, while Melatonin is used for sleep onset. Neither outranks the other. The right pick depends on the goal, and the two are not interchangeable.

Glycine

The sleep amino.

Research depthWell studied
Effective Dose3g
Time to EffectEffects within minutes to hours

Commonly used for:

sleep qualitywaking up restedevening wind-down

Melatonin

The vampire hormone.

Research depthExtensively studied
Effective Dose0.3mg - 5mg
Time to EffectEffects within minutes to hours

Commonly used for:

sleep onsetjet lagshift work

Side-by-Side Comparison

FactorGlycineMelatonin
Research depthWell studiedExtensively studied
Effective Dose3g0.3mg - 5mg
Time to EffectEffects within minutes to hoursEffects within minutes to hours
Commonly used forsleep quality, waking up restedsleep onset, jet lag

Which fits which goal

These two do different jobs, so the comparison ends at the goal, not at a ranking. Match the ingredient to what you are trying to change and check the dose against the amount on the label.

Reach for Glycine when:

  • • The goal is sleep quality
  • • The goal is waking up rested

Reach for Melatonin when:

  • • The goal is sleep onset
  • • The goal is jet lag

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Pages

More Comparisons

Go deeper on either one

Every ingredient page carries the evidence, doses, forms and cautions behind this comparison, with the sources one click away.

Browse the library

This comparison is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications.