Summary: A survey from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) reveals that nearly 45% of parents have given melatonin to their children to help them sleep, despite concerns about its safety and effectiveness for children. Melatonin is widely available over-the-counter, but experts warn that it should not be seen as a quick fix for sleep problems and recommend consulting healthcare professionals before use. The AASM also advises that parents consider behavioral changes and improved sleep habits before resorting to melatonin for their children.
Key Takeaways:
- Widespread Use of Melatonin in Children: Nearly half of parents surveyed report giving melatonin to children, mirroring findings from previous studies, though experts stress caution in its use.
- Concerns Over Safety and Efficacy: Melatonin is not heavily regulated, and its effectiveness for sleep problems other than sleep timing disorders is less established, raising concerns about its routine use in children.
- Alternative Approaches Recommended: The AASM encourages parents to explore behavioral strategies and sleep habit improvements before considering melatonin for their children, and to seek guidance from healthcare professionals regarding its proper use.
A survey from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) reveals that nearly half (45%) of parents have given melatonin to a child under the age of 18 to help him or her sleep.
These findings are similar to a 2023 AASM study, which found 46% of parents reported giving melatonin to their children.
Melatonin is widely available in the United States as an over-the-counter supplement. There’s strong evidence that it can help adjust sleep timing in people who have jet lag, shift work disorder, or a delayed sleep phase, but there is less evidence that melatonin can help people with other types of sleep problems. This raises questions about the appropriateness and safety of its use, especially for children.
“Melatonin is often seen as a quick fix for sleep problems, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution,” says Jocelyn Y. Cheng, MD, sleep medicine physician and member of the AASM Public Safety Committee, in a release. “The use of melatonin in children should be approached with caution and ideally under the guidance of a health care professional.”
Ongoing Concerns
Following a post-pandemic influx of 911 calls for suspected child melatonin overdoses in 2022, the AASM issued a health advisory on melatonin use in children and adolescents, highlighting the need for careful consideration by parents and caregivers.
Melatonin supplements are classified as dietary supplements, meaning they are not heavily regulated by the FDA. These supplements can vary significantly in dosage, especially in chewable forms, so parents are advised to consult with a health care professional before introducing melatonin to their child’s routine to ensure proper use and dosage.
Additionally, supplements may contain chemicals considered controlled substances. Choosing products with the USP Verified Mark can help ensure the quality of the supplement.
“Many sleep problems can be addressed through behavioral changes and improved sleep habits,” says Cheng in a release. “Before implementing melatonin into their child’s routine, parents should first explore other strategies such as establishing a consistent bedtime; keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet; and creating a calming pre-sleep routine.”
ID 317212567 © Prostockstudio | Dreamstime.com
Leave a Reply