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
Anti-stress effect
2 people found this helpful
Melatonin's benefits include stimulating the immune system by activating the thymus gland and the thyroid gland. It reduces anxiety and enhances the emotional state. Under stress, it lowers adrenaline and other hormones, demonstrating an anti-stress effect.
Read More
9
Enhances emotional state
1 people found this helpful
The benefits of melatonin include stimulating the immune system by activating the thymus gland and the thyroid gland. It reduces anxiety and improves emotional state. When feeling stressed, it decreases the level of adrenaline and other hormones, demonstrating its anti-stress properties.
Read More
9
Normalises sleep
Melatonin affects both the hormonal and immune systems. It alleviates depression and anxiety while normalising sleep. Additionally, it significantly slows down ageing, and personally, I think 3mg a day is sufficient.
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.
Melatonin's benefits include stimulating the immune system by activating the thymus gland and the thyroid gland. It reduces anxiety and enhances the emotional state. Under stress, it lowers adrenaline and other hormones, demonstrating an anti-stress effect.
Read More
9
Enhances emotional state
1 people found this helpful
The benefits of melatonin include stimulating the immune system by activating the thymus gland and the thyroid gland. It reduces anxiety and improves emotional state. When feeling stressed, it decreases the level of adrenaline and other hormones, demonstrating its anti-stress properties.
Read More
9
Normalises sleep
Melatonin affects both the hormonal and immune systems. It alleviates depression and anxiety while normalising sleep. Additionally, it significantly slows down ageing, and personally, I think 3mg a day is sufficient.
Read More
9
Improves sleep
Melatonin benefits include stimulating the immune system by activating the thymus gland and the thyroid gland. It reduces anxiety and enhances emotional state. When stressed, it lowers adrenaline and other hormones, providing anti-stress effects.
Read More
7.5
Miracle pills
3 people found this helpful
I am writing a review after three months of admission. Now I cannot do without these miracle pills! This melatonin is a godsend for those who struggle to sleep. You dissolve the pill and within 5 minutes, you are sound asleep! Furthermore, melatonin also stimulates the immune system by activating the thymus gland - the "conductor" of the immune system and the thyroid gland. The hormone reduces anxiety and improves emotional state.
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, the timeframe for noticing results from melatonin can vary, but many users suggest that benefits may manifest within days to weeks of regular use. One user mentioned significant improvement after three months, stating they couldn't imagine life without the supplement, which clearly indicates that consistent use can lead to heightened results over time Read Review. Additionally, other reviews highlighted quick relief for anxiety-induced sleep troubles, suggesting some users may experience a reduction in anxiety symptoms shortly after taking the supplement Read Review.
In the realm of anxiety relief, users frequently mention melatonin's calming effects, emphasizing its role in normalizing sleep patterns and providing a more balanced emotional state. This anti-anxiety benefit can vary widely in terms of onset, with some reports indicating immediate effects while others acknowledge a gradual improvement Read Review. Overall, while individual experiences differ, regular use appears key to maximizing the anxiety-relieving properties of melatonin.
Melatonin has shown potential effects in alleviating anxiety across various studies, particularly in clinical settings. For example, a systematic review found that in children undergoing surgery, melatonin and the standard premedication midazolam had a comparable impact on reducing preoperative anxiety, indicating that melatonin can serve as a viable alternative [4]. Moreover, research has demonstrated that melatonin not only reduced anxiety levels in surgical patients but also improved sleep quality and cognitive function, suggesting that it may be effective for adults as well [6].
Furthermore, certain studies have explored innovative delivery methods for melatonin, such as microneedles, which have been found to significantly improve sleep patterns and alleviate anxiety symptoms in insomnia model rats [2]. Overall, the research supports the notion that melatonin could provide a therapeutic approach to managing anxiety symptoms, especially in specific groups like children and individuals facing surgical procedures.
Users have reported a range of improvements in symptoms related to anxiety and sleep issues when using melatonin. Many individuals noted a significant reduction in anxiety levels, claiming that melatonin not only aids sleep but also enhances emotional states by lowering adrenaline and other stress-related hormones Read Review. Specifically, one user highlighted that melatonin played a critical role in alleviating sleep anxiety, enabling faster sleep onset and helping them wake up refreshed, which echoes sentiments shared by others who mentioned its effectiveness for familial sleep problems Read Review.
Additionally, anecdotal experiences point to melatonin's role in bolstering the immune system while combating depression and stress. Users have found that with consistent use, many report feeling less stressed and more relaxed, contributing to an overall improvement in their mental well-being and sleep quality Read Review. While results can vary from person to person, the consensus is that melatonin is beneficial not only for sleeplessness but also for managing anxiety and emotional health.
Users have reported positive experiences when combining melatonin with other supplements to manage anxiety. Many reviews emphasize the calming effects of melatonin, highlighting its ability to reduce anxiety levels while improving emotional well-being. For instance, one user noted that melatonin both lowers stress-related hormones, such as adrenaline, and supports immune function, further contributing to an overall sense of calm during stressful times Read Review. Others echoed these sentiments, citing melatonin's multifaceted benefits that extend beyond sleep to encompass emotional stability Read Review.
Additionally, users expressed that melatonin can be particularly effective for those experiencing sleep anxiety, with one user mentioning it as essential for achieving restful sleep in their family Read Review. This was supported by another review, which noted melatonin's effectiveness in those struggling with anxiety-induced sleeplessness, indicating that regular use boosted both their sleep quality and overall mental health Read Review. Overall, users suggest that melatonin can be a valuable addition to other supplements aimed at managing anxiety, allowing for a more tranquil state and improved sleep.
Research indicates that melatonin can be a helpful option for treating anxiety, particularly in specific contexts or populations. For example, in a study investigating preoperative anxiety in children, a dose of 0.5 mg/kg was administered 30 minutes before a procedure, resulting in significantly reduced anxiety levels compared to a placebo group [7]. In another study focused on adults undergoing elective surgeries, a dose of 3 mg of melatonin taken the night before the surgery was associated with notable reductions in anxiety and improved overall recovery [6].
While these studies highlight effective doses, it's essential to consider individual differences and the context of use. Depending on the population being studied and the specific situation, the optimal dose may vary. In practice, however, lower doses (such as 0.5 mg/kg for children) and moderate doses (like 3 mg for adults) have shown promise for alleviating anxiety symptoms effectively.
7.5
Miracle pills
3 people found this helpful
I am writing a review after three months of admission. Now I cannot do without these miracle pills! This melatonin is a godsend for those who struggle to sleep. You dissolve the pill and within 5 minutes, you are sound asleep! Furthermore, melatonin also stimulates the immune system by activating the thymus gland - the "conductor" of the immune system and the thyroid gland. The hormone reduces anxiety and improves emotional state.
7.5
Quick sleep aid
1 people found this helpful
This is helpful; I can fall asleep more quickly. I often struggle to sleep fast due to anxiety, which keeps me awake most nights. I’m glad I found this, as it helps me considerably.
9
Normalises sleep
Melatonin affects both the hormonal and immune systems. It alleviates depression and anxiety while normalising sleep. Additionally, it significantly slows down ageing, and personally, I think 3mg a day is sufficient.
9
Anti-stress effect
2 people found this helpful
Melatonin's benefits include stimulating the immune system by activating the thymus gland and the thyroid gland. It reduces anxiety and enhances the emotional state. Under stress, it lowers adrenaline and other hormones, demonstrating an anti-stress effect.
9
Perfect for anxiety
1 people found this helpful
This is fabulous for sleep issues, as it was perfect for helping my daughter sleep soundly when she faced anxiety problems.
9
Enhances emotional state
1 people found this helpful
The benefits of melatonin include stimulating the immune system by activating the thymus gland and the thyroid gland. It reduces anxiety and improves emotional state. When feeling stressed, it decreases the level of adrenaline and other hormones, demonstrating its anti-stress properties.
7.5
Essential for sleep
1 people found this helpful
It is terrible for those who suffer from sleep anxiety, as it helps achieve a child's sleep after a day of fatigue, allowing you to wake up refreshed. I consider it essential for sleep, using it for both myself and my father, taking one pill an hour before bedtime.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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