Melatonin For Children

This information explains how melatonin can be used as part of a treatment plan for children and adolescents with certain sleep disorders.

You may wish to share this information with your family members to help them to understand your treatment options. Since every person's needs are different, it is important that you follow the advice provided to you by your own doctor, nurse and/or pharmacist and speak to them if you have any questions about this medication.

Overview
Melatonin is often called a neurohormone. It is normally secreted by a brain structure called the pineal gland. Melatonin is secreted mainly during the night and it enters the blood, body fluids and all tissues. In Canada, melatonin is available “over the counter” and does not need a prescription.

What is melatonin used for?
Melatonin promotes sleep. It is used to help with certain sleep disorders related to circadian rhythm (“body clock”) disturbances, such as difficulties falling asleep or maintaining sleep.

How does melatonin work?
Melatonin regulates our internal body clock and sleep cycles. Taking melatonin is only effective for sleep if a person has low or absent natural melatonin levels. Melatonin can reduce the time needed to fall asleep.

How should melatonin be taken?
The recommended dose of melatonin should be taken by mouth 20-30 minutes before the desired bedtime. It may interfere with sleep if small doses are given several hours before bedtime in addition to the bedtime dose. The dosage is different for each person, and depends on the type of sleep disorder being treated and the person’s response to melatonin. The quick-acting capsules can be swallowed whole or may be opened and the contents dissolved in any preferred
liquid just before use. Controlled-release tablets should be swallowed whole, and should NOT be crushed or chewed. A liquid form of melatonin is available for children who cannot swallow capsules or tablets.

When will melatonin start working?
Onset of sleepiness should occur within half an hour of taking melatonin.

How long do I have to take melatonin?
Melatonin can be taken on a regular basis or only as needed for as long as sleep problems persist. It remains effective for promoting sleep even when taken on a regular basis for extended periods of time. Due to the complex nature of sleep disorders, children should remain under a doctor’s care during melatonin treatment.

Source: www.bcmhas.ca