Normally I buy 2mg melatonin. this time all they had was 5mg. what happens if one kid took 3 tablets? I gave they 7 year old 2 tablets thinking that I hadnt given any, which I didnt. Dad also gave 4yr old 2 tablets but I had already given him 1 tablet. Will this harm them?
What is the maximum dose of Melatonin for children?
Question posted by MiaBren02 on 1 Feb 2017
Last updated on 15 February 2017 by suzanne66
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Answers
suzanne66
16 Feb 2017
Melatonin is a manmade form of a hormone produced in the brain that helps regulate your sleep and wake cycle.
It has been used in alternative medicine as a likely effective aid in treating insomnia (trouble falling asleep or staying asleep).
Melatonin is not regulated by the FDA in the US and is often sold as a dietary supplement and has not been subjected to the same safety or efficacy requirements as a medicine.
The dose given to a child will depend on age and response. The dose range is usually 2mg to 5mg 30 to 60 minutes before bed. If night time waking is a problem then long acting tablets may be better than immediate release formulations.
Melatonin appears to be well tolerated with only few side effects reported and most often in doses greater than 8mg/day, headache sleepiness and depression being most common.
Research does suggest that Melatonin is likely safe when taken at recommended doses, typically 1-20mg, for up to three months.
For more information see: https://www.drugs.com/melatonin.html
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Further information
- Melatonin uses and safety info
- Melatonin prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Melatonin (detailed)
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