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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Are The Side Effects Of Melatonin?

I have a 10 year old boy that has had insomniphobia for the past month. He is afraid of not being able to fall asleep. We have taken many steps to handle the situation- including warm baths, reading, massage with Lavendar, deep breathing etc. We have finally decided to use melatonin. Is melatonin ok for a 10 year old? What are the pros and cons? I really hate to have him associate falling asleep with a medicine- he is now asking to have it! UGh, any suggestions. We are sleepy, irritable, and sad.
Thank you for your time-
Kris
Fri, 5 Jun 2015
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries

I can understand your concern. Melatonin is a natural chemical and the drug can be used in sleep in individuals with disorder sleep rhythm. The drug is safe to use in children and there are no significant side effects associated with this drug. Your son is 10 and has difficulty in falling asleep and nothing home based measures are helping. In such case I'd advise you to please consult a psychiatrist for help.

It is not common to have sleep disorders at this age. Associated anxiety or fear could be the reason he is finding it difficult to sleep. There should be no hesitation in consulting a psychiatrist. Sedatives like Benzodiazepines can be used in low doses to relieve his anxiety and can help in sleep. Please discuss with a psychiatrist for prescription of the drugs.

Thanks, I hope this helps you.
Take care
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What Are The Side Effects Of Melatonin?

Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries I can understand your concern. Melatonin is a natural chemical and the drug can be used in sleep in individuals with disorder sleep rhythm. The drug is safe to use in children and there are no significant side effects associated with this drug. Your son is 10 and has difficulty in falling asleep and nothing home based measures are helping. In such case I d advise you to please consult a psychiatrist for help. It is not common to have sleep disorders at this age. Associated anxiety or fear could be the reason he is finding it difficult to sleep. There should be no hesitation in consulting a psychiatrist. Sedatives like Benzodiazepines can be used in low doses to relieve his anxiety and can help in sleep. Please discuss with a psychiatrist for prescription of the drugs. Thanks, I hope this helps you. Take care