Melatonin supplements are synthetic form of the hormone “melatonin”. The hormone melatonin is normally produced and released at a certain part of the brain, however, whenever there is an alteration or abnormality in the production and release of the hormone melatonin, it can cause circadian rhythm sleep disorders, since melatonin is responsible in the proper regulation of a person’s normal sleep and wake cycle. Synthetic melatonin through melatonin supplements are made to help regulating the circadian rhythm (internal body clock) back to normal and treat various sleep disorders, such as delayed sleep phase syndrome, insomnia, jet lag, and other types of sleep disorders.

Melatonin Supplements for Children

There have been several researches and studies conducted to determine safety and effectiveness of melatonin supplements in children. Even though researches and studies were conducted, there is still a very fine line in melatonin supplements’ safety and effectiveness for children. However, there are some pediatricians who believe that melatonin supplements are effective in treating sleep problems in children. That is why, it is very important to consult your child’s pediatrician and pharmacist before going to give melatonin supplements to your child. Melatonin supplements can commonly cause side effects to children, or worse, adverse effects.

Adverse Effects of Melatonin Supplements

Adverse effects are effects that can be detrimental or life-threatening. If not given the right way, it may cause adverse effects. Some adverse effects that can possibly arise from taking melatonin supplements to children may include and not limited to:

1. Seizures – Children with known neurological disorders should be given with melatonin supplements with utmost caution or they should never be given with melatonin supplements. Melatonin supplements given to children with known neurological disorders can increase their risks of seizures.
2. Bleeding Tendencies – Melatonin supplements given in children can alter the body’s normal blood clotting abilities. For children with known bleeding disorders or children who are taking blood thinning medications should not take melatonin supplements to prevent severe cases of bleeding. Severe bleeding can deprive the brain from oxygen supply, thus increasing the risk of stroke and worse, death.
3. Increased Blood Glucose Levels – Melatonin supplements can cause abnormalities or changes to the body’s normal response to insulin and glucose tolerance. Well in fact, melatonin supplements can cause an increase to the blood glucose levels. Children with known diabetes mellitus should not take melatonin supplements, because, melatonin supplements can aggravate the medical condition.