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Published on: October 24, 2019
Melatonin utility in neonates and children
Yu-Chieh Chen1, You-Lin Tain, Jiunn-Ming Sheen
1Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Abstract:
Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is an endogenously produced indoleamine secreted by the pineal gland and the secretion is suppressed by light. Melatonin is a highly effective antioxidant, free radical scavenger, and has anti-inflammatory effect. Plenty of evidence supports the utility of melatonin in adults for cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and aging. In children and neonates, melatonin has been used widely, including for respiratory distress syndrome, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), hypoxia-ischemia encephalopathy and sepsis. In addition, melatonin can be used in childhood sleep and seizure disorders, and in neonates and children receiving surgery. This review article discusses the utility of melatonin in neonates and children.
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