Use of melatonin supplements in children is increasing globally, warn experts

The use of melatonin supplements among children and adolescents is increasing worldwide, raising safety concerns among researchers who say long-term evidence on the hormone’s effects in young people remains limited.

A recent narrative review published in the World Journal of Pediatrics found that millions of children are using melatonin to address sleep problems, even though long-term clinical data on its safety and effectiveness are still developing.

Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the body’s sleep-wake cycle and is widely marketed as a natural sleep aid.

Researchers say its growing popularity among families is linked to increasing sleep difficulties among children and teenagers, often associated with late-night screen use, irregular schedules, and academic pressure.

Child-friendly products such as gummies and chewable tablets have also contributed to the rise in melatonin use, particularly in countries where the supplement is available over the counter.

Experts emphasise that melatonin is not a simple dietary supplement but a biologically active hormone that affects several systems in the body, including immune function, metabolism, and reproductive processes. Because of this, researchers warn that unsupervised use in children should be approached with caution.

Clinical studies show melatonin can be beneficial in certain cases, particularly for children with neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. In these cases, the hormone has been shown to help children fall asleep faster and increase total sleep time.

However, the scientific evidence is less clear for otherwise healthy children.

Many studies involve small sample sizes or short treatment periods, making it difficult to assess long-term effects. Researchers also highlight concerns about product quality, noting that some supplements contain inconsistent melatonin levels or additional compounds such as serotonin.

Health experts stress that behavioural sleep strategies should remain the first-line treatment for childhood insomnia, including consistent sleep schedules, limiting screens before bedtime, and maintaining calming bedtime routines. If melatonin is used, experts recommend the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time under medical supervision.