The use of melatonin supplements has increased among all age groups.
Theres limited research on using the supplement in children without these conditions.
Safety Concerns
One safety concern is toxicity.
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Reports ofmelatonin poisoninghave increased in recent years.
Additionally, some of the studied melatonin products contained other substances requiring prescriptions.
Dosing and Frequency
There are no specific guidelines on how much melatonin kids should take.
Parents should consult a pediatric healthcare professional who can recommend appropriate doses and timing forsleep disturbances.
However, some potential side effects of melatonin include:
Melatonin can interact with other medicines that children take.
Before Trying Melatonin
Before starting children on melatonin supplements, speak with apediatric healthcare provider.
Many sleep troubles can be better managed with propersleep hygieneinstead ofmelatonin use.
Kid-Friendly Melatonin Alternatives
Some alternatives to melatonin supplements include medications.Antihistaminesrelieveallergiesbut may also cause drowsiness.
You should talk to a healthcare provider before trying an antihistamine for sleep.
There are alsosleep medicationsa healthcare provider can prescribe.
Sleep Hygiene
Good sleep hygiene is also vital for children and adolescents.
Many kids respond to changes in routine and other strategies that can prompt a healthy sleep environment.
The FDA doesnt regulate the supplement, and it can cause unwanted side effects.
Most experts advise talking to a pediatric healthcare provider before trying melatonin for sleep.
You may see results by changing your childs sleep habits.
American Academy of Pediatrics.Melatonin for kids: What parents should know about this sleep aid.
Harvard Health.New advice on melatonin use in children.
Sleep Foundation.Melatonin dosage for kids.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Melatonin: What you oughta know.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).Pediatric melatonin ingestions - United States, 2012-2021.
American Academy of Sleep Medicine.Health advisory: Melatonin use in children and adolescents.
2015;2015:607148. doi:10.1155/2015/607148
Sleep Foundation.Sleep strategies for kids.
