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Melatonin use in managing insomnia in typically developing (TD) children: A technical report
, Judith Owens1, Narong Simakajornboon2
1Department of Neurology, Pediatric Sleep Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
Sleep Medicine
|February 1, 2025
Summary
Melatonin is frequently used for pediatric insomnia, but guidelines are lacking. This review provides evidence-based recommendations for healthcare practitioners on its use in typically developing children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Practice Guidelines
Background:
- Melatonin is globally utilized for pediatric insomnia management.
- Clinical guidelines for melatonin use in children, especially typically developing (TD) ones, are scarce.
- Existing data on melatonin efficacy and safety in TD children are limited or inconclusive.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the available literature on melatonin for pediatric insomnia.
- To develop evidence-based and consensus-based recommendations for practitioners.
- To guide clinical decision-making regarding melatonin use in TD children.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on melatonin use in pediatric sleep.
- Establishment of a task force by the International Pediatric Sleep Association (IPSA).
- Development of recommendations based on available evidence and expert consensus.
Main Results:
- A summary of evidence regarding melatonin's use, efficacy, and safety in pediatric clinical settings.
- Focus on typically developing (TD) children.
- Companion document to specific clinical recommendations.
Conclusions:
- The International Pediatric Sleep Association (IPSA) has developed recommendations for melatonin use.
- These guidelines aim to support practitioners in managing pediatric insomnia.
- The summary provides a foundation for evidence-based practice in this area.
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