We focused on the effects of oral melatonin on anxiety and pain in children during the stressful process of venipuncture. In a double-blind, randomized controlled trial, we found that administering 0.5 mg/kg of melatonin 30 minutes before the procedure significantly reduced both pain and anxiety levels compared to a placebo.
The results showed that only 18.8% of the kids receiving melatonin reported pain, while 78.2% in the placebo group did. Furthermore, anxiety affected 44.6% of the melatonin group compared to 94.1% of those in the control group.
While melatonin appeared to improve experiences during venipuncture, its impact on the success rate was not statistically significant.
Read More
9
Melatonin reduces anxiety from glyphosate
Melatonin attenuates affective disorders and cognitive deficits induced by perinatal exposure to a glyphosate-based herbicide via antioxidant pathway in adult male and female rats.
Our research examined the effects of melatonin on anxiety and memory problems caused by exposure to glyphosate-based herbicides (GBH). We started with pregnant Wistar rats that were subjected to GBH during gestation and lactation. After weaning, the offspring were treated with melatonin to see if it could help mitigate the negative effects they experienced due to their early exposure.
We observed that exposure to GBH led to increased anxiety and depression-like behaviors in the rats. Additionally, it appeared to impair their memory function. In looking at oxidative stress markers in the brain regions associated with emotion and cognition, we found indications of increased stress—especially pronounced in the female offspring.
However, the inclusion of melatonin significantly reduced these anxiety levels and improved cognitive deficits. Interestingly, the benefits were notably greater in female rats compared to males, suggesting a potential sex-dependent response to melatonin treatment.
Read More
4
No significant anxiety reduction difference
Efficacy of melatonin vs. midazolam for oral premedication in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
We examined the effectiveness of melatonin compared to midazolam for premedication in children, particularly focusing on anxiety levels during the preoperative process. In our systematic review of ten randomized controlled trials involving 774 participants, we found that both medications were used to help children feel more relaxed before surgery. However, when it came to their impact on sedation and anxiety, the results showed no significant differences between melatonin and midazolam.
We assessed various outcomes, including sedation and levels of anxiety in the preoperative room as well as during induction. Despite our thorough examination of the data, we noted that neither melatonin nor midazolam stood out as being more effective than the other. This indicates that when it comes to controlling anxiety, both options may work similarly for children undergoing surgery. Importantly, our findings suggest that variations in how the medications were administered and evaluated contributed to challenges in data synthesis, signaling a need for standardized approaches in future studies.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Calms anxiety
1 people found this helpful
Works wonders. My daughter struggles with anxiety and finds it difficult to switch off at night. This helps her relax and sleep through the night. My son has ADHD and takes 1.5 hours to fall asleep; one of these helps him nod off in 30 minutes. Very beneficial for the difficult nights, and it also tastes great.
Read More
9
Saviour for ADHD
Brilliant! These gummies have been a lifesaver for me and my child with ADHD and anxiety. They help her fall asleep and stay asleep.
Read More
9
Increases performance
Bombastic Melatonin Chewables by Mommy's Bliss help normalise sleep cycles and reduce anxiety in children aged three and above. I highly recommend purchasing it.
Melatonin attenuates affective disorders and cognitive deficits induced by perinatal exposure to a glyphosate-based herbicide via antioxidant pathway in adult male and female rats.
Our research examined the effects of melatonin on anxiety and memory problems caused by exposure to glyphosate-based herbicides (GBH). We started with pregnant Wistar rats that were subjected to GBH during gestation and lactation. After weaning, the offspring were treated with melatonin to see if it could help mitigate the negative effects they experienced due to their early exposure.
We observed that exposure to GBH led to increased anxiety and depression-like behaviors in the rats. Additionally, it appeared to impair their memory function. In looking at oxidative stress markers in the brain regions associated with emotion and cognition, we found indications of increased stress—especially pronounced in the female offspring.
However, the inclusion of melatonin significantly reduced these anxiety levels and improved cognitive deficits. Interestingly, the benefits were notably greater in female rats compared to males, suggesting a potential sex-dependent response to melatonin treatment.
Read More
9
Melatonin reduces pediatric anxiety, pain
The impact of oral melatonin on pain and anxiety reduction during venipuncture in pediatric patients: a double-blind randomized clinical trial.
We focused on the effects of oral melatonin on anxiety and pain in children during the stressful process of venipuncture. In a double-blind, randomized controlled trial, we found that administering 0.5 mg/kg of melatonin 30 minutes before the procedure significantly reduced both pain and anxiety levels compared to a placebo.
The results showed that only 18.8% of the kids receiving melatonin reported pain, while 78.2% in the placebo group did. Furthermore, anxiety affected 44.6% of the melatonin group compared to 94.1% of those in the control group.
While melatonin appeared to improve experiences during venipuncture, its impact on the success rate was not statistically significant.
Read More
8
Melatonin microneedles alleviate anxiety
Silk fibroin microneedles loaded with melatonin for circadian rhythm regulation.
We examined the potential of melatonin microneedles as a novel method for treating anxiety and regulating circadian rhythms. This study utilized silk fibroin to create microneedles that deliver melatonin transdermally, offering sustainable drug release for up to 11 hours.
During our research, we found that these microneedles maintain a stable blood drug concentration for eight hours post-application. This sustained delivery method was particularly beneficial for insomnia model rats, where we saw notable improvements in both sleep patterns and reductions in anxiety levels.
The findings indicate that melatonin microneedles effectively address disrupted circadian rhythms and alleviate anxiety symptoms. Our results suggest a promising avenue for improving treatment methods, especially for those struggling with sleep-related issues.
Read More
8
Melatonin reduces anxiety post-surgery
Role of oral melatonin in prevention of postoperative delirium in patients undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia: A Randomized controlled trial.
In our study, we aimed to understand how melatonin might reduce anxiety and the risk of postoperative delirium in patients undergoing elective surgeries. We focused on 162 patients aged 40 to 80, evenly split into two groups—one receiving melatonin and the other receiving standard premedication with alprazolam and ranitidine.
We administered 3 mg of melatonin the night before the surgeries and monitored various outcomes related to anxiety and cognitive function. Remarkably, we found that the incidence of anxiety was significantly lower in those who took melatonin. Furthermore, patients reported better sleep quality, and cognitive function assessments indicated less cognitive dysfunction compared to the control group.
Our investigation highlighted the positive effects of melatonin, showing it not only lessens anxiety but also contributes to a smoother recovery post-surgery. This provides valuable insight for future practices in managing preoperative anxiety effectively.
Read More
7
Melatonin alleviates prenatal anxiety effects
Prenatal Constant Light Exposure Induces Behavioral Deficits in Male and Female Rat Offspring: Effects of Prenatal Melatonin Treatment.
We explored the impact of prenatal constant light exposure (CLE) and melatonin treatment on anxiety-related behaviors in male and female rat offspring. In our study, six groups of rats were examined, with some experiencing a standard light/dark cycle while others were subjected to CLE. We treated these groups with either a saline solution or melatonin.
Through various anxiety assessments like the open field test and elevated plus maze, we observed that exposure to CLE led to significant behavioral deficits. Specifically, the rats showed heightened anxiety levels, alongside increased plasma cortisol levels. Surprisingly, melatonin treatment repaired these behavioral issues in a way that was different between sexes.
Even though melatonin did not change overall levels of melatonin in the bloodstream or normalize cortisol levels, it did boost the expression of specific brain receptors associated with mood regulation. This suggests that melatonin may hold therapeutic potential for addressing anxiety issues triggered by environmental factors experienced during prenatal development.
Works wonders. My daughter struggles with anxiety and finds it difficult to switch off at night. This helps her relax and sleep through the night. My son has ADHD and takes 1.5 hours to fall asleep; one of these helps him nod off in 30 minutes. Very beneficial for the difficult nights, and it also tastes great.
Read More
9
Saviour for ADHD
Brilliant! These gummies have been a lifesaver for me and my child with ADHD and anxiety. They help her fall asleep and stay asleep.
Read More
9
Increases performance
Bombastic Melatonin Chewables by Mommy's Bliss help normalise sleep cycles and reduce anxiety in children aged three and above. I highly recommend purchasing it.
Read More
7.5
Safe sleep aid
Excellent for children and adults. It aids sleep, and I prefer to give one pill to prevent anxiety while sleeping. I use it for my children, particularly on days with altered sleep schedules. It's safe for all.
Read More
7.5
Relieves anxiety
Delicious jellies for kids. They help with quick sleep onset and reduce anxiety in children.
Anxiety is a natural and often healthy emotion characterized by feelings of worry, nervousness, or fear about an impending event or situation. While some level of anxiety is a normal reaction to stress, excessive or chronic anxiety can become a mental health issue. It may present in various forms, from everyday worries to more severe conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, or social anxiety disorder. Symptoms can manifest both psychologically, such as persistent worry and difficulty concentrating, and physically, including symptoms like increased heart rate, sweating, or fatigue.
Understanding the difference between normal anxiety and an anxiety disorder is crucial. Normal anxiety can be beneficial, motivating you to prepare for important events like exams or public speaking. However, when it starts to interfere with daily activities or leads to avoidance behaviors, it may indicate the need for professional help. Treatments for anxiety often include therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes, allowing individuals to manage their symptoms effectively. If someone is struggling with anxiety that impacts their quality of life, seeking guidance from a healthcare professional is a key step toward recovery.
Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the pineal gland in the brain, primarily responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles. It is often referred to as the "sleep hormone" because its levels typically rise in the evening, signaling to your body that it’s time to prepare for sleep. Conversely, melatonin levels tend to drop in the morning, helping to wake you up and feel alert. Factors such as light exposure, age, and lifestyle can affect melatonin production, which is why many people turn to melatonin supplements as a natural remedy for insomnia and sleep disorders.
Melatonin supplements can be particularly useful for those who have disrupted sleep patterns, such as shift workers or travelers experiencing jet lag. Available in various forms, including tablets and gummies, melatonin is widely regarded as a safe option for short-term use. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement, especially if you're pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications. While melatonin can be effective in promoting sleep, its efficacy can vary between individuals, and establishing good sleep hygiene practices, like maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and creating a comfortable sleep environment, can also significantly contribute to better sleep quality.
Melatonin is primarily known for its role in regulating sleep-wake cycles, but it has also been investigated for its potential effects on anxiety. Some studies suggest that melatonin may help alleviate anxiety symptoms, particularly in individuals with anxiety disorders or those experiencing stress-related insomnia. The hormone could contribute to a calmer state by promoting better sleep quality, allowing individuals to feel more rested and less anxious during the day.
However, the evidence regarding melatonin's effectiveness for anxiety is mixed, and more research is necessary to draw definitive conclusions. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially for managing anxiety. While melatonin might offer some benefits for sleep and indirect relief from anxiety, it should not substitute for conventional treatments like psychotherapy or medication when needed.
Based on user reviews, it appears that many individuals experience a range of results from taking this supplement for anxiety and sleep. Several users specifically mention seeing results fairly quickly, often within 20 to 30 minutes after consumption. For instance, one reviewer notes that it greatly helped their child with anxiety, allowing them to fall asleep significantly faster than usual, with a sleep onset time reduced to just 30 minutes Read Review. Another user describes a similar experience, stating it aids in achieving sleep within about 20 to 30 minutes Read Review.
However, results can vary among users, and some have expressed uncertainty about the effectiveness, attributing their experience to possible placebo effects Read Review. Overall, while many users report prompt effects, individual responses might differ, highlighting the importance of personal experimentation when it comes to using such supplements for anxiety relief.
Melatonin has been the subject of extensive research regarding its potential to alleviate anxiety, and the findings suggest a promising therapeutic role. In various studies, including animal models, melatonin has demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing anxiety levels under different circumstances. For example, a study involving rats showed that melatonin treatment could mitigate anxiety behaviors associated with environmental stressors during prenatal development [1]. In another investigation focused on postoperative patients, melatonin significantly decreased anxiety and improved cognitive functions compared to standard sedatives [6]. Moreover, a randomized controlled trial on children indicated that melatonin effectively reduced anxiety levels during medical procedures, bolstering its potential as a non-invasive option [7].
Despite the encouraging outcomes, it's essential to note that the effectiveness of melatonin can vary depending on specific contexts. For instance, in a systematic review comparing melatonin with midazolam for preoperative anxiety in children, neither medication was found to significantly outperform the other [4]. Another study highlighted that while melatonin may serve as a useful alternative to traditional anxiolytics, it did not universally cut anxiety as effectively as expected [3]. Overall, while melatonin is supported by scientific evidence as a supplement for anxiety, further research is warranted to fully understand its potential and optimal applications.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported notable improvements in their symptoms related to anxiety and sleep. For example, parents have shared that their children, particularly those with ADHD, experienced significant reductions in the time it took to fall asleep, with some stating it was cut down from up to 1.5 hours to just 30 minutes Read Review. Additionally, users have noted that these supplements not only help with quick sleep onset—often within 20 to 30 minutes—but also assist in maintaining a restful sleep through the night Read Review.
Furthermore, a number of reviewers highlighted the calming effects on anxiety, describing how these supplements have made bedtime routines less stressful and contributed to a more normalized sleep cycle in children Read Review. However, it's important to note that individual results can vary significantly; some users expressed uncertainty regarding the effectiveness, suggesting that their experiences could be influenced by placebo effects Read Review. This emphasizes the value of personal experimentation when considering these products.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported positive experiences when combining this supplement with other anxiety-relief methods. Several users noted that these gummies not only contributed to improved sleep onset but also helped alleviate anxiety symptoms related to bedtime. For instance, one reviewer shared how it significantly helped their daughter who struggles with anxiety, making it easier for her to relax and sleep through the night Read Review. Others echoed similar sentiments, stating that the gummies were instrumental in regulating their children's sleep cycles while simultaneously reducing feelings of anxiety Read Review.
Users have also mentioned that these supplements can be especially beneficial during stressful times, enhancing the overall effects when used in conjunction with other treatments for anxiety. For example, one parent indicated that using these gummies helped their child who was experiencing frequent night awakenings due to anxiety Read Review. However, it's worth noting that individual effectiveness may vary, with some users unsure whether the benefits were due to the supplement or a placebo effect Read Review. This variability suggests a need for personal experimentation to determine the best combination of anxiety-management strategies.
Based on recent research, the optimal dose of melatonin for treating anxiety varies depending on the context and population. For children undergoing medical procedures, studies have found that a dose of 0.5 mg/kg administered 30 minutes prior to the event significantly reduced anxiety levels compared to a placebo [7]. In adult populations, such as patients prepping for elective surgeries, a dose of 3 mg taken the night before surgery was shown to effectively lower anxiety and improve recovery outcomes [6].
While these studies highlight specific dosing under particular conditions, it's essential to consider individual variability and the context in which melatonin is being used. Overall, melatonin shows promise as a potential treatment for anxiety, particularly when assessing the appropriate dosage for specific groups, as the right amount can make a noticeable difference in outcomes [3].
9
Calms anxiety
1 people found this helpful
Works wonders. My daughter struggles with anxiety and finds it difficult to switch off at night. This helps her relax and sleep through the night. My son has ADHD and takes 1.5 hours to fall asleep; one of these helps him nod off in 30 minutes. Very beneficial for the difficult nights, and it also tastes great.
6
Allergy risk
Nice product for children. It helps them sleep peacefully, starting in about 20 to 30 minutes, but may not suit everyone. It worked for my older children, but my 6-year-old had temporary allergies, so I stopped using it for her. When I’m anxious before travel, it helps me, and I can’t do without it to regulate the children's sleep.
6
Placebo effect?
Not sure if they help or if it's just a placebo effect, but they have assisted her in overcoming anxiety around sleep.
9
Increases performance
Bombastic Melatonin Chewables by Mommy's Bliss help normalise sleep cycles and reduce anxiety in children aged three and above. I highly recommend purchasing it.
7.5
Shortened routine
Great product! It works for my son, reducing his night routine from 40 to 10 minutes. It helps his anxiety when he wakes frequently, although it wears off by 2 am.
7
Melatonin alleviates prenatal anxiety effects
Prenatal Constant Light Exposure Induces Behavioral Deficits in Male and Female Rat Offspring: Effects of Prenatal Melatonin Treatment.
We explored the impact of prenatal constant light exposure (CLE) and melatonin treatment on anxiety-related behaviors in male and female rat offspring. In our study, six groups of rats were examined, with some experiencing a standard light/dark cycle while others were subjected to CLE. We treated these groups with either a saline solution or melatonin.
Through various anxiety assessments like the open field test and elevated plus maze, we observed that exposure to CLE led to significant behavioral deficits. Specifically, the rats showed heightened anxiety levels, alongside increased plasma cortisol levels. Surprisingly, melatonin treatment repaired these behavioral issues in a way that was different between sexes.
Even though melatonin did not change overall levels of melatonin in the bloodstream or normalize cortisol levels, it did boost the expression of specific brain receptors associated with mood regulation. This suggests that melatonin may hold therapeutic potential for addressing anxiety issues triggered by environmental factors experienced during prenatal development.
8
Melatonin reduces anxiety post-surgery
Role of oral melatonin in prevention of postoperative delirium in patients undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia: A Randomized controlled trial.
In our study, we aimed to understand how melatonin might reduce anxiety and the risk of postoperative delirium in patients undergoing elective surgeries. We focused on 162 patients aged 40 to 80, evenly split into two groups—one receiving melatonin and the other receiving standard premedication with alprazolam and ranitidine.
We administered 3 mg of melatonin the night before the surgeries and monitored various outcomes related to anxiety and cognitive function. Remarkably, we found that the incidence of anxiety was significantly lower in those who took melatonin. Furthermore, patients reported better sleep quality, and cognitive function assessments indicated less cognitive dysfunction compared to the control group.
Our investigation highlighted the positive effects of melatonin, showing it not only lessens anxiety but also contributes to a smoother recovery post-surgery. This provides valuable insight for future practices in managing preoperative anxiety effectively.
9
Melatonin reduces pediatric anxiety, pain
The impact of oral melatonin on pain and anxiety reduction during venipuncture in pediatric patients: a double-blind randomized clinical trial.
We focused on the effects of oral melatonin on anxiety and pain in children during the stressful process of venipuncture. In a double-blind, randomized controlled trial, we found that administering 0.5 mg/kg of melatonin 30 minutes before the procedure significantly reduced both pain and anxiety levels compared to a placebo.
The results showed that only 18.8% of the kids receiving melatonin reported pain, while 78.2% in the placebo group did. Furthermore, anxiety affected 44.6% of the melatonin group compared to 94.1% of those in the control group.
While melatonin appeared to improve experiences during venipuncture, its impact on the success rate was not statistically significant.
4
No significant anxiety reduction difference
Efficacy of melatonin vs. midazolam for oral premedication in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
We examined the effectiveness of melatonin compared to midazolam for premedication in children, particularly focusing on anxiety levels during the preoperative process. In our systematic review of ten randomized controlled trials involving 774 participants, we found that both medications were used to help children feel more relaxed before surgery. However, when it came to their impact on sedation and anxiety, the results showed no significant differences between melatonin and midazolam.
We assessed various outcomes, including sedation and levels of anxiety in the preoperative room as well as during induction. Despite our thorough examination of the data, we noted that neither melatonin nor midazolam stood out as being more effective than the other. This indicates that when it comes to controlling anxiety, both options may work similarly for children undergoing surgery. Importantly, our findings suggest that variations in how the medications were administered and evaluated contributed to challenges in data synthesis, signaling a need for standardized approaches in future studies.
4
Melatonin's limited effectiveness on anxiety
Acceptability of midazolam and melatonin as premedications for anxious children undergoing general anaesthesia: a qualitative interview study with children, caregivers and health professionals participating in the MAGIC trial.
We focused on evaluating how melatonin may help alleviate anxiety in children about to undergo general anaesthesia. In our exploration, we included insights from children, their caregivers, and health professionals involved in the Melatonin for Anxiety prior to General Anaesthesia In Children (MAGIC) trial. Through semi-structured interviews, we gathered thoughts from 37 participants about their experiences and perspectives regarding melatonin compared to the standard premedication, midazolam.
Our findings revealed a nuanced picture. While melatonin showed promise as a potential alternative to midazolam, it was reported to be less effective in reducing pre-operative anxiety. However, there is a clear demand for a premedication with fewer side effects than midazolam, which is often considered due to its established compliance despite its drawbacks. It's important to note that acceptance of melatonin varies among different groups involved, with many remaining open to alternatives.
Overall, this study emphasizes the importance of factoring in both effectiveness and side effects when choosing premedications for anxious children.
References
Stoyanova T, Nocheva H, Nenchovska Z, Krushovlieva D, Ivanova P, et al. Prenatal Constant Light Exposure Induces Behavioral Deficits in Male and Female Rat Offspring: Effects of Prenatal Melatonin Treatment. Int J Mol Sci. 2025;26. 10.3390/ijms26031036
Li X, Chen Y, Shao H, Yan Z, Wang Y, et al. Silk fibroin microneedles loaded with melatonin for circadian rhythm regulation. Int J Biol Macromol. 2025;301:140500. 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.140500
Kettle J, Bolt R, Deery C, Papaioannou D, Rodd H, et al. Acceptability of midazolam and melatonin as premedications for anxious children undergoing general anaesthesia: a qualitative interview study with children, caregivers and health professionals participating in the MAGIC trial. Trials. 2024;25:813. 10.1186/s13063-024-08611-x
Ponde VC, Singh N, Gursale A, Patil A, Chia A, et al. Efficacy of melatonin vs. midazolam for oral premedication in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Minerva Pediatr (Torino). 2025;77:94. 10.23736/S2724-5276.24.07519-0
El Hamzaoui A, Lamtai M, El Brouzi MY, Azirar S, Rezqaoui A, et al. Melatonin attenuates affective disorders and cognitive deficits induced by perinatal exposure to a glyphosate-based herbicide via antioxidant pathway in adult male and female rats. Int J Dev Neurosci. 2024;84:745. 10.1002/jdn.10374
Thakur T, Saini V, Grover S, Samra T. Role of oral melatonin in prevention of postoperative delirium in patients undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia: A Randomized controlled trial. Indian J Psychiatry. 2024;66:457. 10.4103/indianjpsychiatry.indianjpsychiatry_965_23
Rahafard S, Akbari Jokar Z, Hosseini SA, Alaee E. The impact of oral melatonin on pain and anxiety reduction during venipuncture in pediatric patients: a double-blind randomized clinical trial. Ann Med Surg (Lond). 2024;86:5811. 10.1097/MS9.0000000000002163