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Melatonin for sleep problems in children with neurodevelopmental disorders

    Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin
    |October 17, 2015
    PubMed

    Insights

    Children with neurodevelopmental disorders often experience insomnia. This review examines the off-label use of melatonin, a sleep hormone, for treating sleep issues in children with ADHD or autism spectrum disorder.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric Sleep Medicine
    • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
    • Pharmacology

    Background:

    • Children with neurodevelopmental disorders frequently suffer from sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling asleep, irregular sleep-wake cycles, and reduced sleep duration.
    • These sleep problems may be linked to disruptions in the natural secretion of melatonin, a hormone crucial for regulating the sleep-wake cycle.
    • Previous research reviewed melatonin use in older adults; this study focuses on pediatric populations.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To review the off-label and unlicensed use of melatonin for sleep problems in children with neurodevelopmental disorders.
    • To evaluate the current evidence regarding melatonin's efficacy and safety in this specific pediatric group.

    Main Methods:

    • Literature review of studies on melatonin use in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
    • Analysis of data concerning sleep onset, sleep duration, and behavioral outcomes.
    • Assessment of reported side effects and safety profiles.

    Main Results:

    • Children with ADHD and ASD exhibit high rates of insomnia and circadian rhythm disruptions.
    • Melatonin is frequently used off-label to manage these sleep issues in pediatric populations.
    • Evidence on efficacy and long-term safety in children with neurodevelopmental disorders is still developing.

    Conclusions:

    • Melatonin shows potential as a therapeutic option for sleep disturbances in children with ADHD and ASD.
    • Further rigorous research is needed to establish optimal dosing, long-term efficacy, and safety.
    • Clinical guidelines for melatonin use in pediatric neurodevelopmental disorders require further evidence-based development.

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