Information for Parents and Carers
What is melatonin?
Melatonin is a natural hormone made by the brain that helps control the body’s sleep–wake cycle. It signals to the body that it is time to sleep. Some children have difficulty falling asleep because their melatonin rhythm is delayed. A doctor may prescribe melatonin to help regulate sleep.
When might melatonin be prescribed?
In the UK, melatonin may be prescribed for children with ongoing sleep difficulties, particularly children with neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, learning disabilities or visual impairment. It is usually considered after sleep routines and behavioural strategies have been tried.
Specialist initiation:
In many NHS areas, melatonin is started by a specialist clinician such as a paediatrician, sleep specialist, or child psychiatrist.
Once treatment is stable, your GP may continue prescribing under shared care arrangements.
Expected benefits
Melatonin may help your child:
• fall asleep faster
• settle at bedtime more easily
• develop a more regular sleep pattern
Melatonin works best when combined with good sleep routines.
Possible side effects
Most children tolerate melatonin well. Possible side effects include:
• morning sleepiness
• headache
• dizziness
• stomach discomfort
• vivid dreams or nightmares
• mood changes (uncommon)
Contact your healthcare professional if side effects are severe or persistent.
Monitoring, Off-Days, and Review Duration
Children taking melatonin should be reviewed regularly.
Monitoring may include:
- Bedtime and sleep onset
- Night waking
- Daytime alertness
- Behaviour and mood
- Possible side effects
Parents may be asked to keep a sleep diary to guide treatment.
Taking Breaks (“Drug Holidays”):
Sometimes clinicians recommend short breaks from melatonin to check if it is still needed:
- Occasional nights without melatonin
- Weekend breaks
- Short review periods
Review Duration:
- Treatment is usually reviewed every 3–6 months, depending on your child’s response and sleep progress.
- Reviews may be sooner if there are side effects, dose adjustments, or changes in health.
- The specialist or GP will decide whether melatonin is still needed, the dose is appropriate, or if other strategies should be used.
Always follow the advice from your healthcare professional before changing or stopping melatonin.
Healthy sleep habits
Melatonin works best alongside good sleep habits:
• consistent bedtime and wake time
• relaxing bedtime routine
• avoid screens 1 hour before bed
• quiet, dark bedroom
• avoid caffeine in the evening
When to seek medical advice
Contact your GP, pharmacist, or specialist if:
• sleep does not improve
• side effects occur
• your child becomes unusually sleepy during the day
• you would like to stop or change the medication.
Melatonin treatment should be reviewed regularly by a healthcare professional.