Melatonin is a hormone produce by the pineal gland in the brain that is responsible for the proper regulation of the circadian rhythm or the internal body clock. Melatonin is normally released and produced after sunset, which will signal the brain that it is already time for sleeping, however, there are people who have abnormalities in the release of melatonin hormone, such as in circadian rhythm sleep disorder. People who have alterations or abnormalities in the release of melatonin hormone will find it hard to fall asleep at night, just like in delayed sleep phase syndrome and insomnia.

Melatonin Supplements

Synthetic preparations of melatonin have been made to melatonin supplements. Melatonin supplements are available over-the-counter, but should be taken under the doctor’s supervision. Even though melatonin supplements are considered to be a natural supplement, melatonin supplements are still not proven to be effective and safe in children. When it comes to safety of melatonin supplements for children, there are still some undetermined areas that are not studied thoroughly. There are some researches saying that melatonin supplements are safe for children when taken in very low dosages and when not taken for more than 4 weeks. And there are some researches saying that melatonin supplements should not be taken by children if there are still other treatment options that can be done.

Melatonin Supplements Safe Dosages for Children

If you ask someone about what is the safe dose of melatonin for children and you will ask another one the same question, most likely, their answers will vary. There are some books saying that the safe and recommended dose for melatonin supplements in children 15 years old and younger is only from 0.5 mg to 7.5 mg. And there are also other books saying that the safe and recommended dose for melatonin supplements in children 15 years old or younger should be no more than 0.3 mg. To safely know the right dose for your child, it will be best if you are going to talk with your child’s pediatrician and ask the pediatrician to monitor your child during the treatment course. You, yourself will also have a responsibility in observing your child for any negative side effects as your child is taking melatonin supplements. Once you have observed any abnormalities with your child, stop giving him the melatonin supplement and contact your child’s pediatrician as soon as possible.