Is Melatonin safe for children?

Question

I have a child with ADHD and a friend suggested giving him Melatonin to help with him going to sleep as he likes to stay up to four and five in the morning some nights. Other nights its jus 1 or 2 am. So she gave me some Melatonin but it doesent say anything on it about warnings and regulations. If there is anyone in the medical proffesion please help! Oh yes, he is only 4 and he is about 37 inches in height and weighs about 45 lbs.

Answer 1

Melatonin appears to have some use against circadian rhythm sleep disorders, such as jet lag and delayed sleep phase syndrome. It has been studied for the treatment of cancer, immune disorders, cardiovascular diseases, depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and sexual dysfunction
Melatonin is practically nontoxic and exhibits almost no toxic side effects. However, melatonin taken in combination with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) can lead to overdose because MAOIs inhibit the breakdown of melatonin by the body
VR

Answer 2

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Answer 3

A few things about Melatonin.

First, most preparations have much too much, and too much melatonin can make some people groggy in the morning.

Second, There really haven't been any good studies regarding melatonin in children under 18.

Third, the adult body produces between 5 and 25 MICROGRAMS of melatonin per night, and the suplements usually contain from 2-5 MILLIGRAMS. Much more than the body produces.

Melatonin can interact with some medications, such as psychiatric medications

Some people have suggested that melatonin can help with ADD

I really wouldn't recommend giving this substance to a 4-year old without consulting a naturopathic doctor. Many MD's don't have alot of information regarding some of the natural and herbal medications. A certified and licensed Naturopathic Physician has completed extensive post-graduate education equivalent to that of an allopathic physician and will best be able to help you. Some pharmacists are also trained in natural medications and might be able to help.

Answer 4

Is Melatonin Safe For Toddlers

Answer 5

The only use of Melatonin that I am aware of for children is in the treatment of late-stage bedwetting. Several years ago, the Hospital for Sick Children (Sick Kids) in Toronto, Ontario CANADA was using this supplement on occasion in an attempt to treat this problem in older children. I do not re-call the dosage or form of the supplement however. I was an RN at the time, now a BScN, RN.

I would not recommend using this or any other medication to treat children without the express consent and knowledge of that child's primary health care practitioner, whether a Nurse Practitioner or MD.

If you have questions about Melatonin or it's use in children, you can contact your Pediatrician or Teleheath (in the Province of Ontario) or call AboutKidsHealth Family Resource Centre at Sick Kids where you can talk to a trained volunteer at [phone] .

Answer 6

Seriously talk to your doctor I have heard of adults having problems with melatonin such as horrific nightmares I wouldnt mess to much with your childs brain its still developing also Melatonin's long-term safety has not been established. There are growing concerns about the possibility of damage to the retina of the eye associated with melatonin use.

Answer 7

Talk to his Dr first. Your child is too important to take a chance.

PS. I take sublingual melatonin and would NEVER give it to any child without a dr permission. I am under Dr supervision myself.

Answer 8

I doubt it. You should always check with his pediatrician when you have questions like this - never go on the advice of a friend.

Answer 9

Please do not give your child prescription drug that aren't his. If your child is already on some meds the two drugs could enter act with each other and over dose your kid. I think it would be wise to wait until tomorrow and talk to the doctor first. You've lived with them staying up this long, what's one more night?

Answer 10

If your son is ADHD he is prob seeing a mental health professional, you need to speak with them as well as his doctor. Is he on a MAOI?