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
7.5
Child's anxiety reduction
7 people found this helpful
Nighttime Anxiety. My 9-year-old child has experienced significant improvements in sleeping through the night and a reduced level of anxiety before bed since taking these. She occasionally complains of dizziness, particularly if she doesn't settle down, but overall, we’ll continue using these.
Read More
7.5
Alleviates anxiety
This is a good sleep remedy that helps my child alleviate anxiety and depression, aiding in better sleep too.
Read More
6
Helps with sleep
My 4-year-old daughter has struggled with sleep since birth. I tried melatonin supplements due to my anxiety and stress. She enjoys the sweet strawberry-flavoured ramune and finds it easier to sleep after taking it. While effects vary, it helps her sleep better. I give it to her after 10 pm, but too much too soon may wake her in the night. Establishing an early bedtime routine allows us to reduce usage gradually.
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.
Nighttime Anxiety. My 9-year-old child has experienced significant improvements in sleeping through the night and a reduced level of anxiety before bed since taking these. She occasionally complains of dizziness, particularly if she doesn't settle down, but overall, we’ll continue using these.
Read More
7.5
Alleviates anxiety
This is a good sleep remedy that helps my child alleviate anxiety and depression, aiding in better sleep too.
Read More
6
Helps with sleep
My 4-year-old daughter has struggled with sleep since birth. I tried melatonin supplements due to my anxiety and stress. She enjoys the sweet strawberry-flavoured ramune and finds it easier to sleep after taking it. While effects vary, it helps her sleep better. I give it to her after 10 pm, but too much too soon may wake her in the night. Establishing an early bedtime routine allows us to reduce usage gradually.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Children's sleep aids are products designed to help improve sleep quality and ease the process of falling asleep for kids. These aids can include various forms such as melatonin supplements, bedtime routines, calming teas, and even sleep-inducing sound machines or night lights. Melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, is commonly used in supplement form, but it’s essential to consult with a pediatrician before introducing any sleep aid to ensure it's appropriate for your child’s age and health.
In addition to supplements, creating a conducive sleep environment is crucial. This includes establishing a consistent bedtime routine, limiting screen time before bed, and ensuring the bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. Utilizing tools like weighted blankets or soothing sounds can also promote a peaceful sleep setting. Always prioritize healthy sleep habits and discuss persistent sleep issues with a healthcare professional to find the most suitable solutions for your child's sleep challenges.
While children's sleep aids are primarily designed to promote better sleep quality and address issues like insomnia, some parents may wonder if these products can also help alleviate anxiety in their children. Ingredients commonly found in children's sleep aids, such as melatonin, may help regulate sleep-wake cycles and promote relaxation. However, it's important to note that these aids are not specifically formulated to address anxiety and may not tackle the root causes of stress or worry in children.
If you're considering using a sleep aid for your child to help with anxiety, it's crucial to consult with a pediatrician or healthcare professional first. They can provide personalized advice and may suggest other methods such as therapy, mindfulness practices, or behavioral strategies to help manage anxiety effectively. Ultimately, while sleep aids can support better sleep, they should not be seen as a standalone solution for anxiety in children.
When it comes to children's sleep aids used for anxiety, the time it takes to see results can vary widely depending on several factors, including the specific product being used and the individual child's needs. Generally, many parents report noticing some improvement within a few days of consistent use. However, it’s essential to consider that some children may take longer to respond, sometimes needing a week or more to experience significant changes in sleep patterns and anxiety levels.
Melatonin has gained attention in recent years for its potential role in alleviating anxiety, supported by various research studies. One notable study explored the effects of melatonin on anxiety and cognitive issues caused by glyphosate exposure in rats, revealing that melatonin significantly reduced anxiety levels and improved cognitive deficits, especially in female subjects [5]. Another research indicated that melatonin microneedles could effectively manage anxiety symptoms and disrupted circadian rhythms, highlighting how sustained melatonin delivery could lead to notable reductions in anxiety levels in preclinical models [2].
Additionally, melatonin was compared to midazolam for preoperative anxiety in children, with findings suggesting that while melatonin was not definitively more effective, it may offer an alternative with fewer side effects [3]. Moreover, studies have demonstrated that melatonin can significantly lower anxiety levels in adult patients undergoing elective surgery, leading to improved cognitive function and recovery outcomes [6]. Collectively, these findings underscore melatonin's therapeutic potential for anxiety, particularly in specific populations and contexts, making it a supplement worth considering for addressing anxiety-related issues.
Users report a range of improvements in their children's sleep and anxiety symptoms with the use of this sleep remedy. For instance, one reviewer noted that their child experienced alleviation of anxiety and depression, along with better sleep quality: "This is a good sleep remedy that helps my child alleviate anxiety and depression, aiding in better sleep too" Read Review. Another parent found that their daughter, who has had sleep issues since birth, benefitted from the strawberry-flavored supplement, stating it made it "easier to sleep after taking it": "While effects vary, it helps her sleep better" Read Review.
These anecdotal experiences suggest a positive trend in symptom improvement, particularly in enhancing sleep quality and managing anxiety. However, it’s important to emphasize that individual results can vary significantly; what works for one child may not produce the same results for another. Establishing a good bedtime routine and monitoring dosage may also play crucial roles in achieving the desired effects.
Research indicates that melatonin can be a useful aid for alleviating anxiety in children, particularly in situations like undergoing medical procedures. A study found that administering 0.5 mg/kg of oral melatonin 30 minutes prior to a venipuncture procedure significantly reduced both anxiety levels and pain in children compared to a placebo. In the melatonin group, the incidence of anxiety was reported at around 44.6%, compared to 94.1% in the placebo group, highlighting the potential effectiveness of melatonin in managing anxiety during stressful situations [7].
Moreover, while melatonin has shown promise, particularly as a premedication in clinical settings, its overall effectiveness appears to be comparable to that of standard medications like midazolam during preoperative scenarios. In systematic reviews, researchers noted no significant differences in anxiety reduction between melatonin and midazolam, suggesting that melatonin can provide a viable alternative for children, especially considering its favorable side effect profile [4][3]. Thus, a tailored dose of 0.5 mg/kg may be optimal for pediatric patients experiencing anxiety, but it's essential to consult healthcare providers for personalized recommendations.
7.5
Alleviates anxiety
This is a good sleep remedy that helps my child alleviate anxiety and depression, aiding in better sleep too.
6
Helps with sleep
My 4-year-old daughter has struggled with sleep since birth. I tried melatonin supplements due to my anxiety and stress. She enjoys the sweet strawberry-flavoured ramune and finds it easier to sleep after taking it. While effects vary, it helps her sleep better. I give it to her after 10 pm, but too much too soon may wake her in the night. Establishing an early bedtime routine allows us to reduce usage gradually.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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