Insomnia in Children

Insomnia in Children

by Kathyrn Libby -
Number of replies: 2

Sleep is a restorative and important part of a child wellness, but many children often have difficulty sleeping. Many parents will give their child melatonin to assist with sleep.   Melatonin works with the child's own biorhythms and supports the child falling asleep.  A study evaluating the onset of sleep with children with autism spectrum disorders respond to low doses of melatonin for treatment. 

References

Goldman, S., Adkins, K., Calcutt, M., Carter, M., Goodpaster, R., Wang, L., … Malow, B. (2014). Melatonin in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Endogenous and Pharmacokinetic Profiles in Relation to Sleep. Journal of Autism & Developmental Disorders, 44(10), 2525–2535. https://doi-org.ezproxy.csusm.edu/10.1007/s10803-014-2123-9

In reply to Kathyrn Libby

Re: Insomnia in Children

by Erik Contreras -
Jill, children on the autism spectrum are very scheduled oriented. I can see how melatonin can assist to ensure they follow a natural circadian rhythm. Since we naturally produce melatonin in response to it being dark. I wonder if autistic children lose or have a minimum reaction of secretreing melatonin in response to it being nightime.
In reply to Kathyrn Libby

Re: Insomnia in Children

by Dominic Lomibao -

Hello Jill,

Sleep is very important in the health of a child.  I was reading an article that children with chronic pain are given melatonin to improve their sleep, which is a healthier approach, thus reduces their pain as well.  In addition, many children nowadays do not get enough physical activities.  Allowing them to play outside and more physical activities may improve their sleep. 

 

                                                        Reference

Young, L., & Kemper, K. J. (2013). Integrative care for pediatric patients with pain. Journal of Alternative &

     Complementary Medicine, 19(7), 627–632. https://doi-org.ezproxy.csusm.edu/10.1089/acm.2012.0368