Melatonin is a naturally secreted hormone that helps manage your day and night cycles. At night, your body naturally produces more melatonin helping you sleep. Synthetic versions of the hormone are purported to help insomniacs and those suffering from jet lag to get a good night's sleep. However, pediatric use of melatonin is under debate. Consult your pediatrician prior to introducing any supplement into your child's diet.
Benefits
For children who struggle with epilepsy, melatonin may be effective in minimizing insomnia and help them stay asleep, according to an April 2009 article in Medical News Today. In addition, children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder who are using stimulant medication may find it easier to drop off to sleep with a minimal dose of melatonin, reports a 2009 study of long-term effects of melatonin use in children with ADHD published in the Journal of Pineal Research.
Warning
Use of the synthetic hormone for children without a diagnosis of ADHD, autism or epilepsy is not recommended. MedlinePlus, the National Institutes of Health's website for the public, states that melatonin use is potentially unsafe for children. Because melatonin is a hormone and has impact on other hormones in your child's body, it may interfere with adolescent development if taken as a supplement.
Dosage
The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that children under a pediatrician's supervision may receive a daily dose of melatonin. UMMC notes that a daily dose of 0.3 mg -- approximately the normal amount an adult produces naturally -- may be safe for children under 15. Higher doses may cause seizures.
Time Frame
Have your child take melatonin supplements about an hour before bedtime to help him feel sleepy and nod off. If you're using the supplement to combat jet lag, provide the dose an hour before normal bedtime in your current location.
Expert Insight
The authors of the 2009 long-term study in the Journal of Pineal Research state that discontinuation of melatonin for ADHD led to an increase in insomnia and sleep-related issues. Long-term melatonin supplementation for the children in the study did not lead to other health issues. Supplementation appeared to resolve issues around falling asleep as well as helped improve behavior and mood in affected children.
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