The CDC recently issued an alert that melatonin overdoses are increasing in kids. Make sure parents understand the risks associated with melatonin use and the importance of storing products appropriately.
The pandemic caused significant sleeping problems for many, which led to more consumers buying sleeping aids, including melatonin. Melatonin OTC product sales hit $821 million in 2020. These products are increasingly available in kid-friendly forms, such as chewables and gummies, and they’re often considered safe only because they’re so commonly used. While melatonin is likely safe when used appropriately in adults, there are growing questions about long-term use and high doses in kids.
According to the CDC, a growing number of kids under 5 are accidentally consuming melatonin products – resulting in hospitalizations and death. This seems to be rare, but the CDC is alerting consumers that reports are on the rise. There’s also some concern over whether regular use in kids might affect pubertal development, but evidence of this is currently limited.
Tell parents to store all melatonin products out of the reach of children – particularly young kids who might confuse gummies or chewables with candy. And make sure they understand that they should only give melatonin to their kids if there is a medical reason to do so – healthy kids shouldn’t be taking melatonin on a regular basis to fall asleep. Check out our recently updated monograph to learn more.
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