Melatonin Use in a School-aged Boy with Obesity Born to a Mother with Type 2 Diabetes

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Metabolic Disorders
• Sleep Medicine

Background:

• Intrauterine exposure to maternal hyperglycemia is a risk factor for pediatric obesity.
• Lifestyle modifications are often insufficient, especially with concurrent sleep disturbances.
• Obesity in children born to diabetic mothers requires effective management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential of melatonin as an adjunct therapy for pediatric obesity.
• To assess the impact of melatonin on sleep quality and appetite regulation in a child with obesity and sleep disturbances.
• To explore the role of sleep dysregulation in exacerbating appetite control issues in pediatric obesity.

Main Methods:

• A case study of an 11-year-old boy born to a mother with type 2 diabetes presenting with rapid weight gain and overeating.
• Standard endocrine evaluations were performed.
• Melatonin (1 mg/day) was administered to address observed severe sleep disturbances.

Main Results:

• The patient experienced significant improvements in sleep quality, including reduced nighttime awakenings.
• A secondary reduction in overeating episodes was reported by parents.
• Gradual weight reduction was observed without any adverse events.
• Endocrine evaluations were within normal limits, ruling out other contributing factors.

Conclusions:

• Melatonin administration may be a beneficial adjunct therapy for pediatric obesity, particularly in cases associated with sleep dysregulation.
• Optimizing sleep behavior with melatonin could favorably influence energy balance and metabolic regulation in vulnerable children.
• Further research is warranted to confirm the efficacy and mechanisms of melatonin in managing pediatric obesity.