The popular sleep supplement melatonin has been studied, though in limited arenas, for its effects on the pediatric population. Many children, especially those with chronic neurological or developmental disorders, experience sleep cycle disturbances. Natural supplements are more appealing to some parents. While melatonin supplements may improve sleep for these kids, they should be taken with care and only under the supervision of a doctor.
Seizures
You should never give your child melatonin supplements without first consulting his pediatrician. However, children who are prone to seizures should not take melatonin supplements at all. A 2009 study in "Pediatrics in Review" reviewed several research studies regarding melatonin use in children, and found one of its more likely adverse events to be an increase in the likelihood of seizure activity. Melatonin can also cause new seizure activity in some children. The reviewers reported that the seizure activity involved only a small number of children and took place in an environment with more than one variable, making the cause and effects fuzzy. However, the reviewers also recommend parents err on the side of caution and not give children melatonin if they have had seizures in the past.
Drug Interactions
Melatonin is a sleep aid, making it a natural sedative or nervous system depressant. It should not be combined with other depressants, which could potentially increase its effects. MedlinePlus reports that this is of major concern when it comes to melatonin use. These include certain psychiatric medications as well as other sleep aids -- even other natural sleep aids. In addition, melatonin may interfere with the function of medications used for blood pressure control as well as immunosuppressive medications.
Contraindicated Diagnoses
While sleep disorders are often the byproduct of chronic health conditions, many of these conditions are contraindicated for melatonin use. Children who have hormone disorders, diabetes or depression should avoid melatonin. In addition, melatonin can influence hormonal regulation. Per MedlinePlus, long-term use may interfere with a child's growth process. This means children with hormonal disorders should not use melatonin. In addition, those with certain neurological disorders are advised to avoid the supplement. These include children with cerebral palsy and migraines. Melatonin is metabolized by the liver, making it potentially dangerous for kids with disorders that affect liver function.
General Concerns
Melatonin is not appropriate for the majority of children, reports MedlinePlus. Its effects on kids are not entirely understood, and it may do some children more harm than good. There is no known safe dose of melatonin for children, and many of its long-term effects as a sleep aid are not well-researched. However, if your child does not meet any of the contraindicated criteria and your pediatrician agrees that melatonin is OK, you can give your child small doses of the supplement. Be sure to monitor your child for any adverse effects, and check in with your child's doctor regularly.
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