Dose finding of melatonin for chronic idiopathic childhood sleep onset insomnia: an RCT
van Geijlswijk IM, van der Heijden KB, Egberts ACG, Korzilius HPLM, Smits MG
Published in Psychopharmacology
Methodology
Randomised, placebo-controlled trial comparing melatonin 0.05, 0.1 and 0.15 mg/kg given 1-2 hours before habitual bedtime for one week in children with chronic sleep onset insomnia.
Key Findings
All melatonin doses advanced sleep onset and dim light melatonin onset compared with placebo, with no dose-response relationship; timing of administration mattered more than dose.
Conclusions
Low-dose melatonin given earlier in the evening is effective for childhood sleep onset insomnia.
Limitations
Very short treatment period; children only; no long-term safety or developmental follow-up.
Supplements Studied
All melatonin doses advanced sleep onset and dim light melatonin onset compared with placebo, with no dose-response relationship.
Outcomes Measured
Melatonin advanced both sleep onset and dim light melatonin onset compared with placebo.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Academic/hospital funding
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