Melatonin, a neurohormone produced by the pineal gland, regulates the sleep-wake circadian rhythm. Sleep disorders are prevalent in children, especially those with neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and other neurodisabilities and affect about 50-75% of this population. The use of melatonin to improve sleep in this population has been debated for over 20 years, with recent re-views addressing its efficacy and safety. Melatonin significantly improves sleep latency and total sleep time in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other neurodevelopmental disorders. However, its effectiveness in reducing night awakenings is limited. Short-term use shows no significant association with serious adverse effects, though mild side effects like headache, nausea, drowsiness, and mood changes are common. Long-term safety data are limited but suggest no significant impact on puberty onset or bone health. Dosing and timing of melatonin administration vary widely, and individualized treatment plans are recommended. The use of melatonin should be accompanied by behavioural interventions, and potential side effects should be monitored closely.

Marchetti, F., Cocchi, E. (2024). La melatonina nei disturbi del sonno in bambini e adolescenti con problemi neurocomportamentali. MEDICO E BAMBINO, 43(8), 505-508 [10.53126/meb43505].

La melatonina nei disturbi del sonno in bambini e adolescenti con problemi neurocomportamentali

Marchetti, Federico
Writing – Review & Editing
;
Cocchi, Enrico
Writing – Review & Editing
2024

Abstract

Melatonin, a neurohormone produced by the pineal gland, regulates the sleep-wake circadian rhythm. Sleep disorders are prevalent in children, especially those with neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and other neurodisabilities and affect about 50-75% of this population. The use of melatonin to improve sleep in this population has been debated for over 20 years, with recent re-views addressing its efficacy and safety. Melatonin significantly improves sleep latency and total sleep time in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other neurodevelopmental disorders. However, its effectiveness in reducing night awakenings is limited. Short-term use shows no significant association with serious adverse effects, though mild side effects like headache, nausea, drowsiness, and mood changes are common. Long-term safety data are limited but suggest no significant impact on puberty onset or bone health. Dosing and timing of melatonin administration vary widely, and individualized treatment plans are recommended. The use of melatonin should be accompanied by behavioural interventions, and potential side effects should be monitored closely.
2024
Marchetti, F., Cocchi, E. (2024). La melatonina nei disturbi del sonno in bambini e adolescenti con problemi neurocomportamentali. MEDICO E BAMBINO, 43(8), 505-508 [10.53126/meb43505].
Marchetti, Federico; Cocchi, Enrico
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11585/990574
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