The efficacy and safety of exogenous melatonin for primary sleep disorders: a meta-analysis
Buscemi N, Vandermeer B, Hooton N, Pandya R, Tjosvold L, Hartling L, Baker G, Klassen TP, Vohra S
Published in Journal of General Internal Medicine
Methodology
Meta-analysis of randomised placebo-controlled trials of melatonin in primary sleep disorders, pooling sleep onset latency, sleep efficiency and total sleep time.
Key Findings
Melatonin reduced sleep onset latency by a small but statistically significant amount, with no significant effect on sleep efficiency or total sleep time; short-term use was not associated with adverse events.
Conclusions
Melatonin produces a modest reduction in time to fall asleep in primary sleep disorders.
Limitations
Effect size small and of uncertain clinical significance; heterogeneity across doses and populations.
Supplements Studied
Melatonin reduced sleep onset latency by a small but statistically significant amount, with no significant effect on sleep efficiency or total sleep time.
Outcomes Measured
Melatonin reduced sleep onset latency by a small but statistically significant amount.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
US Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.