Melatonin in autism spectrum disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Rossignol DA, Frye RE
Published in Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology
Methodology
Systematic review of 35 studies with meta-analysis of five randomized double-blind placebo-controlled melatonin trials in ASD; quality appraised with the Downs and Black checklist.
Key Findings
Physiological melatonin abnormalities were reported across studies; melatonin supplementation improved sleep duration and sleep onset latency versus placebo, with minimal side effects.
Conclusions
Melatonin supplementation improves sleep parameters in autism spectrum disorders and is generally well tolerated.
Limitations
Small individual trials, varied dosing and formulations, limited data on core autism symptoms.
Supplements Studied
Melatonin supplementation in ASD improved sleep duration and sleep onset latency with minimal side effects.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Not specified
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.