Melatonin is a hormone that plays an important role in sleep, and our bodies produce melatonin naturally. At Zarbee’s, the health and safety of the children and adults who use our products is our top priority. As always, we’re here to bring you news, information, and carefully crafted products made to support your family’s health and well-being. It takes a hive!
Melatonin Safety
Is melatonin safe for kids?
Melatonin is widely available as a dietary supplement for children and adults. It’s a naturally occurring hormone that regulates the body’s sleep and wake cycles. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that “Melatonin may be used on occasion to help get some kids rest while you keep trying to establish good bedtime routines. It may also help some older children and teens reset sleep schedules—such as after vacations, summer breaks, or other interruptions.
We encourage parents to consult their pediatrician with any questions or concerns about melatonin or any dietary supplement.
Melatonin storage
Children are naturally curious and may be tempted to reach for anything that looks like candy or a sweet-tasting liquid. To keep children safe at home, melatonin, other supplements, and all medicines should be given with adult supervision and used and stored properly. Here are some safety tips from Up and Away—a great educational resource for parents in partnership with the CDC.
Pick a place that little ones can’t see or reach
Never leave tablets, gummies, or liquids on a counter or child’s bedside
Always relock the child-resistant caps on bottles
Teach your children about supplement safety—never refer to it as candy
Remind guests who have medicines in purses or coats to keep them out of sight
Be prepared in case of emergency with the Poison Help hotline number: 800-222-1222
Keep all medicines, vitamins, and supplements, including melatonin, up and out of reach
Always follow dosing directions on the labels or as recommended by a pediatrician
Be sure to visit Up and Away for a downloadable safety tip sheet and educational coloring book for children.
Melatonin Dosing Charts
Keep in mind that melatonin works best when taken 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. For proper dosing recommendations for your family, we suggest you consult your doctor or healthcare provider.
Melatonin Dosing for Kids
Product | Age | Dosage |
|---|---|---|
3 through 5 years | Take 1 chewable tablet | |
6 through 12 years | Take 1 to 2 tablets as needed | |
3 through 5 years | Take 1 gummy | |
6 through 12 years | Take 1 to 2 gummies as needed | |
3 through 5 years | Take 0.5 to 1 mL dose | |
6 through 11 years | Take 1 to 2 mL dose | |
12 years and older | Take 3 mL dose |
Melatonin Dosing for Adults
When using melatonin as a sleep aid, it’s recommended to start with lower doses of 1 mg or less and increasing that amount by 1 mg if needed (not to exceed 10 mg) every week until you’ve reduced the time it takes to fall asleep.
Melatonin Side Effects
Melatonin is generally safe for short-term use. Common side effects can include headache, dizziness, nausea, or daytime drowsiness.
Related Products
- Melatonin for Kids: What Parents Should Know About This Sleep Aid, Healthy Children, https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/sleep/Pages/melatonin-and-childrens-sleep.aspx
- Melatonin: How Much Should You Take? Cleveland Clinic, https://health.clevelandclinic.org/melatonin-how-much-should-i-take-for-a-good-nights-rest
