Loading Calculator...
Please wait a moment
Please wait a moment
General guidance for melatonin dosing in children (consult pediatrician)
Melatonin dosing is primarily age-based
| Age Group | Starting Dose | Maximum Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 3 years | Not Recommended - Consult Pediatrician | ||
| 3-5 years | 0.5 mg | 1 mg | Use with caution, doctor guidance |
| 6-12 years | 1 mg | 3 mg | Most common pediatric range |
| 13+ years | 1 mg | 5 mg | Teen/adult dosing |
| Special needs* | 1-3 mg | 6 mg | Under medical supervision |
* Children with autism, ADHD, or developmental conditions may need different dosing under medical care.
Most childhood sleep problems can be solved without supplements. Try these first:
Short-term use appears safe, but melatonin is a hormone and long-term effects in children aren't well studied. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends talking to your pediatrician before use. It's generally considered safer than prescription sleep aids but shouldn't be used without addressing underlying sleep issues first.
Research shows that lower doses (0.5-1 mg) are often more effective than higher doses. Melatonin works by signaling your body it's time to sleep, not by sedating. More isn't better—too much can actually disrupt sleep or cause grogginess. Start low and only increase if there's no effect after 3-5 nights.
Generally 30-60 minutes before the desired bedtime. However, this varies by individual. Some children respond better to taking it earlier (1-2 hours before bed), especially if trying to shift their sleep schedule earlier. Experiment to find what works for your child.
While some children use melatonin nightly long-term (especially those with autism or ADHD), most sleep experts recommend it for short-term or intermittent use. The body naturally produces melatonin, and it's unclear if long-term supplementation affects this. Try to use it as a tool while improving sleep habits, not as a permanent solution.
Melatonin primarily helps with falling asleep, not staying asleep. If your child wakes during the night, the issue is likely not melatonin-related. Consider: sleep apnea, anxiety, environmental disruptions, or sleep habits. Extended-release melatonin exists but discuss with your doctor first.
Gummies can be effective, but there are concerns: they often contain added sugar, the actual melatonin content may vary more than tablets, and children may want to eat them like candy. If using gummies, choose a reputable brand and store them safely out of reach.
Signs of too much melatonin include: morning grogginess, headaches, vivid dreams or nightmares, mood changes, or paradoxically more difficulty sleeping. If you see these, try reducing the dose. More melatonin doesn't mean better sleep.