Experts Urge Caution on Melatonin Use for Children

Melatonin has become a widely used sleep aid for children, largely due to its reputation as a natural and easily accessible solution. However, experts warn that its rising popularity has outpaced scientific understanding of its long-term safety and effectiveness in young users.

While melatonin can help children with neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism or ADHD improve sleep patterns, evidence supporting its use in otherwise healthy children remains limited. Concerns also include inconsistent dosing in over-the-counter products, unsupervised usage, and increasing cases of accidental consumption.

Although often viewed as harmless, melatonin is a hormone that influences multiple body systems beyond sleep, including metabolism and immune function. Long-term effects on growth and development are still unclear.

Specialists recommend prioritizing behavioral sleep strategies such as consistent routines and reduced screen time. If used, melatonin should be taken under medical guidance, in low doses, and for short durations only.

15-03-2026