Melatonin Side Effects in Children

Melatonin is a hormone that is naturally produced in the human body as well as available in the form of medications to treat sleep disorders. In the human body, melatonin helps in inducing sleep. It acts as an internal clock that regulates the sleep patterns; i.e. it signals the brain when 'it is time to sleep'. A person suffers from sleep disorders when his body is deficient in this hormone. In that case, doctors prescribe melatonin supplements to rectify this problem. On the other hand, sometimes, a person may suffer from lack of sleep due to several reasons. In that case, melatonin supplements are believed to be safer options than sleeping pills as the latter come with several side effects and addiction. In case of children, disorders like ADHD and autism make them suffer from sleep disorders. Melatonin is also prescribed to children to cure sleep disorders. However, are you aware of the potential side effects associated with it? Let us take a look at it in detail.

Negative Effects of Melatonin in Children

Most of the hormone supplements or drugs that alter the normal functioning of the body come with a set of side effects that may be minor or long-lasting ones. Melatonin medications or supplements are no exceptions; however, no long term or long-lasting side effects are observed in case of melatonin for children. One of the major melatonin side effects is extreme sleepiness. This mostly occurs if the supplement is taken in excess amounts. Other side effects associated with sleepiness like disorientation, sleepwalking, nightmares, vivid dreams, etc. are also commonly observed in children. Deep sleep for a longer period of time, can result in nightmares and the child may wake up crying. The following are the other side effects of melatonin observed in children:

• Dizziness
• Abdominal pain / discomfort
• Headache
• Depression
• Upset stomach
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Bed wetting
• Changes in mood
• Giddiness
• Seizures

Bed wetting is also one of the major side effect of melatonin observed in case of children and toddlers. The use of this drug puts the child in deep sleep. This makes him unaware of other senses, like that of the need of urination. The deeper sleep prevents the child from waking up from bed resulting in bed wetting. Secondly, seizures are the most severe side effects, which are mostly observed in long term or excess use of melatonin. Along with seizures, other neurological disorders may also be observed if melatonin overdose occurs.

Most of the above mentioned symptoms subside once the use of this drug is stopped. However, as there are numerous known melatonin side effects, it is questionable whether the supplement of melatonin should be used or avoided. It is better to consult the doctor if your child suffers from sleep disorders and go for other safe methods rather than using these supplements and drugs. Secondly, if melatonin is required, one should use it only in the prescribed amount for a prescribed period of time, as an overdose of it can lead to harmful side effects. When taken under supervision and consultation, there are lesser chances for melatonin supplement side effects to develop. However, one should note that even in this case, sleepiness and drowsiness may be experienced, as melatonin is a hormone that affects sleep and sleeping pattern.

Lastly, as a concluding note, one should note that any hormone supplements should be taken only on doctor's consultation and supervision to prevent any long term health hazards. Take care!