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Melatonin for children with autism spectrum disorder
Canadian Family Physician Medecin De Famille Canadien
|March 14, 2020
Summary
Melatonin may be an effective and safe treatment for sleep problems in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While behavioral therapy is the first-line approach, melatonin can serve as an alternative or adjunctive therapy for ASD-related sleep issues.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric sleep medicine
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
Background:
- Sleep difficulties are common in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), impacting overall quality of life.
- Behavioral therapy is the primary treatment for sleep problems in children with ASD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of melatonin as a treatment for sleep problems in children with ASD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on melatonin for sleep issues in children with ASD.
- Analysis of existing data on melatonin's efficacy and safety in this population.
Main Results:
- Melatonin has been reported as effective and safe for children with ASD experiencing sleep difficulties.
- A new pediatric prolonged-release melatonin formulation shows promise in European studies.
Conclusions:
- Melatonin is a viable alternative or adjunctive treatment for sleep problems in children with ASD.
- Further research and availability of new formulations are warranted.
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