Despite efforts to educate consumers on safe melatonin use and storage, increased emergency department (ED) visits from accidental melatonin ingestion remain a concern. Here’s the latest.
There were about 11,000 ED visits involving kids and infants consuming melatonin while unsupervised between 2019 and 2022 – this accounted for 7% of all ED visits due to unsupervised medication exposures in kids. About half of these visits involved children under 5 years-old and were due to flavored melatonin gummies or chewables.
The CDC is urging parents to store all dietary supplements in sealed containers and out of the reach of children – particularly products like gummies that could easily be confused with candy. The CDC also explains that melatonin products aren’t required to use child-resistant packaging, but choosing products that do is a good idea if you have small kids.
Lastly, remind parents that while melatonin is likely safe when used appropriately in adults, they should only intentionally 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.
The information in this brief report is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions. Copyright © 2024 NatMed. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited. NatMed is the leading provider of high-quality, evidence-based, clinically-relevant information on natural medicine, dietary supplements, herbs, vitamins, minerals, functional foods, diets, complementary practices, CAM modalities, exercises and medical conditions. Monograph sections include interactions with herbs, drugs, foods and labs, contraindications, depletions, dosing, toxicology, adverse effects, pregnancy and lactation data, synonyms, safety and effectiveness.
