Melatonin in the treatment of insomnia in children and adolescents

Abstract

Aims and Method. To review the efficacy and safety of melatonin in the treatment of insomnia in children and adolescents, through a Medline search covering the years 1966 to November 2003. Results. Five placebo-controlled studies and several case series were identified. Melatonin reduces sleep latency, but does not consistently improve other aspects of sleep disturbance. Safety, particularly in the medium- and long-term, is poorly evaluated; short-term concerns include exacerbation of epilepsy and asthma. Clinical implications. Melatonin might be effective in the short-term treatment of sleep onset insomnia.The optimal dose is unknown. It cannot currently be recommended for the treatment of other forms of sleep disturbance or for routine long-term use. Melatonin is not a licensed medicine in the UK.