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Melatonin: From Pharmacokinetics to Clinical Use in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Sébastien Lalanne1,2, Claire Fougerou-Leurent1,2, George M Anderson3
1Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Department, CHU Rennes, 35033 Rennes, France.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|February 5, 2021
Summary
Melatonin effectively treats sleep disorders in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Its use is influenced by factors like age and formulation, with minimal side effects observed in ASD patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Developmental Pediatrics
Background:
- Melatonin's role in pathophysiological conditions, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is under investigation.
- Reduced melatonin secretion is frequently reported in individuals with ASD, prompting clinical trials with various melatonin formulations.
- While therapeutic benefits for sleep disorders in ASD are noted, further research is needed on melatonin's effects and optimal formulation choices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review factors influencing treatment response to melatonin in ASD.
- To examine potential side effects of melatonin administration in ASD.
- To synthesize current understanding of melatonin's efficacy and safety in ASD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating melatonin in autism spectrum disorder.
- Analysis of clinical trials examining melatonin's effects on sleep and behavior in ASD.
- Synthesis of data on factors influencing melatonin pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.
Main Results:
- Melatonin demonstrates therapeutic benefits for sleep latency and quality in individuals with ASD.
- Potential improvements in autistic behavioral impairments are suggested.
- Treatment response is influenced by age, sex, administration route/time, formulation, dose, and co-administered substances.
- No major melatonin-related adverse effects were reported in typical development or ASD populations.
Conclusions:
- Melatonin is a well-validated and tolerated treatment for sleep disorders in children and adolescents with ASD.
- Understanding factors influencing melatonin pharmacokinetics is crucial for optimizing its use in ASD.
- Further research is warranted to explore dose-effect relationships for both sleep problems and behavioral impairments in ASD.
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