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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
PubMed

Insights

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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