Melatonin poisoning in kids is on the rise, CDC warns

Melatonin poisoning in kids is on the rise, CDC warns

Melatonin supplements are a trick many parents keep up their sleeves to help restless kids get a good night̵7;s sleep, but now the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is warning about a sharp rise in melatonin overdoses involving children.

From 2012 to 2021, national poison control centers saw a 530% increase in reports of kids accidentally ingesting too much melatonin, according to a new CDC report. In total, the National Poison Data System (NPDS) received 260,435 reports of accidental pediatric melatonin ingestion during the 10-year study period. Of those cases reported, more than 4,000 kids required hospitalization, five required ventilators and two children died.

Kids under 5 account for the largest increase in melatonin-related hospitalizations, and 94% of reported melatonin overdoses are accidental. The largest single-year increase in accidental melatonin ingestions occurred from 2019-2020, when reports spiked by 38%.

Why are more kids taking too much melatonin?

The CDC hasn̵7;t confirmed a direct cause for the spike in accidental melatonin ingestions. According to the report, the growing popularity of over-the-counter melatonin supplements may play a role. Melatonin is a neurohormone that occurs naturally in the body and helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle, but it̵7;s also sold as a supplement in pill, gummy and liquid form. Between 2016 and 2020, melatonin sales rose 150%, the CDC says.

Despite booming sales, there̵7;s a lack of strict manufacturing regulations for melatonin supplements. Dosages may vary by brand, and some melatonin supplements don̵7;t come in childproof containers. Dr. Karima Lelak, an emergency physician at Children̵7;s Hospital of Michigan and the lead author of the study, tells NPR many parents don̵7;t see melatonin as a medication, so they may leave it on nightstands where it̵7;s easily accessible to kids.

̶0;Child-resistant packaging for this supplement should be considered, and healthcare providers should warn parents about potential toxic consequences of melatonin exposure,̶1; the study authors write.

Is melatonin safe for kids?

Melatonin is a natural substance that can serve as a safe, short-term sleep aid, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says, but parents and caregivers should chat with a pediatrician before using it. If a doctor approves melatonin for use, experts from the AAP recommend:

  • Starting with the lowest recommended dosage.
  • Dosing melatonin 30-90 minutes before bedtime.
  • Maintaining a good bedtime routine.

What are the symptoms of melatonin poisoning?

Ingesting too much melatonin can cause gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and/or central nervous system symptoms. Common melatonin side effects include:

  • Headache.
  • Nausea.
  • Drowsiness.
  • Dizziness.
  • Abdominal cramps.
  • Irritability.
  • Confusion or disorientation.
  • Mild tremors.
  • Abnormally low blood pressure.

The side effects of melatonin ingestion can vary in severity, so it̵7;s important to seek medical attention if you suspect a child has taken more than the recommended amount. You can contact Poison Control online or by calling 1-800-222-1222.


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