What Are Time-Release Supplements?

by Melissa Chichester

According to a 2018 report in the Journal of the American Medical Association, there are more than 90,000 vitamin and mineral supplements on the market.

That might explain why while shopping for your favorite supplements, you feel confused by all of the varieties, doses, and delivery formats. One of those delivery systems is time-release, which also be written as “sustained-release,” “delayed-release,” or “extended-release.” They might also be labeled as “prolonged-release,” or “modified-release” capsules or tablets. These descriptions all have a similar meaning.

Time-release technology is designed to release nutrients to the body continuously over an extended period of time.

For example, this can occur over an eight-hour time span but can vary between supplements. Your body chemistry also plays a role in how supplements are released.

By using time-release formulas, your body can better absorb the nutrients that you use. In addition, time-release formulas are useful if you have sensitivities to supplements which allows your body to receive a little at a time. 

Not all nutrients can be delivered in a time-release format. Delayed release is better suited for water-soluble supplements, such as B-complex vitamins, Vitamin C, choline, and inositol. 

Our top five time-release supplements

Mega Vita Min™ for Seniors: This specialized formula contains vitamins, minerals, and herbs in one comprehensive multivitamin for older adults. 

Vitamin B-100® Complex  is an easy way to intake  B vitamins. This supplement performs a unique role in maintaining proper metabolic functioning and is essential for well-being.* When taken together in a complex formula, the B-vitamins help to maintain the health of the nervous system, skin, eyes, and hair.* Furthermore, it contains 100 mg each of B-1, B-2, niacin, B-6, inositol, PABA, pantothenic acid and choline bitartrate, as well as 100 mcg of B-12 and biotin, and 400 mcg of folic acid. 

Ultra Man™ 50 Plus is designed to support the unique health needs of men in one convenient, high-performance blend.* Two coated capsules ensure a timely delivery of essential nutrients, including vital nutrients not commonly found in the diet, like ginkgo biloba and phosphatidylserine.* It also includes saw palmetto and lycopene for healthy prostate function.*

Tri-Layer Sleep contains 30 tri-layer tablets to help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.*

This drug-free sleep aid features time-release technology, with each layer activating at different times throughout the night to help you relax and support calm, tranquil rest.*

Plus, it contains three incredible benefits in one convenient tablet for occasional sleeplessness.* 

Benefit 1: Calming L-theanine works with nighttime herbs chamomile, lavender, lemon balm and valerian root extracts to help you relax and unwind.*

Benefit 2: Melatonin releases quickly to help you fall asleep fast.*


Benefit 3: Time-release melatonin works with your body’s natural sleep cycle.*

Wake up feeling refreshed.*

Bi-layered Melatonin tablets contain two distinct layers: one for instant release (2 mg) and one for sustained release (3 mg). This eliminates the need for two separate tablets, providing a quick release of nutrients and sustained support throughout the night, optimizing nutrient levels as you need them.* Melatonin may be appropriate for people experiencing occasional sleeplessness, those with jet lag or anyone wanting to promote sound, quality sleep.*

To explore the benefits of time-released supplements even further, it is best to discuss it with your healthcare practitioner to find a good fit for your personal needs.