Featured article | July 2024
Myths and Evidence Regarding Melatonin Supplementation for Occasional Sleeplessness in the Pediatric Population
Ran D. Goldman, MD , Peter B. Bongiorno, ND, Lac , James M. Olcese, PhD , Paula A. Witt-Enderby, PhD , and Jess P. Shatkin, MD, MPH
Pediatric Annals, 2021;50(9):e391–e395
Discussed in the article:
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Common misconceptions about melatonin include fears of delayed puberty and reduced natural melatonin production, which lack scientific support.
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Efficacy of melatonin supplementation for sleep in children
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An analysis of 32 children (average age 9.6 years) with sleep issues showed 2 mg melatonin 1 hour before bedtime for 2.1 months improved sleep latency and reduced awakenings.
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40 children (6-12 years) received 5 mg melatonin or placebo for 4 weeks resulted in earlier sleep onset and increased total sleep time.
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- Safety of Melatonin in Children
- 51 children on melatonin (average dose 2.69 mg) for around 3 years reported high satisfaction, few adverse events, and normal puberty onset.
- No evidence found for delayed puberty or reduced natural melatonin production.
- Dosing recommendations
- No universal guidelines exist for melatonin use in children.
- Recommended dose: 1 to 5 mg, 30 minutes to 1 hour before bedtime.
- Dosage should be based on clinical responsiveness and regular follow-up with healthcare providers.
“Melatonin is widely available as a dietary supplement and recent short- and long-term safety evaluations suggest its favorable safety profile, with only mild and self-limiting adverse events.”
“Unsubstantiated concerns in the past may have limited its use among children with conditions for which melatonin may offer a better sleep pattern, and improved quality of life.”
