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
Promotes better sleep
2 people found this helpful
Works great! My 7-year-old has nighttime anxiety and often can't settle before bed. On nights when his mind races with worries, these supplements help him relax so that he falls asleep before the anxieties can return. Previously, he managed only 5-6 hours of sleep from constant waking, but now that's changed. I give it to him consistently for better results, and it seems to help regulate his sleep patterns.
Read More
9
Restlessness reduced
Great! An excellent way to help your child fall asleep quickly and enjoy sound sleep. The restlessness and anxiety during night sleep have disappeared, and I no longer wake up frequently throughout the night.
Read More
9
Quick effect
Excellent! Works really quickly. My eldest suffers from anxiety at night, and my middle child struggles to sleep if he naps during the day. When they have trouble falling asleep, I give them this, and they fall asleep swiftly.
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 great! My 7-year-old has nighttime anxiety and often can't settle before bed. On nights when his mind races with worries, these supplements help him relax so that he falls asleep before the anxieties can return. Previously, he managed only 5-6 hours of sleep from constant waking, but now that's changed. I give it to him consistently for better results, and it seems to help regulate his sleep patterns.
Read More
9
Restlessness reduced
Great! An excellent way to help your child fall asleep quickly and enjoy sound sleep. The restlessness and anxiety during night sleep have disappeared, and I no longer wake up frequently throughout the night.
Read More
9
Quick effect
Excellent! Works really quickly. My eldest suffers from anxiety at night, and my middle child struggles to sleep if he naps during the day. When they have trouble falling asleep, I give them this, and they fall asleep swiftly.
Read More
9
Life-changing product
Great product! My 7 and 10-year-old boys with ASD have been happily taking it for three years to alleviate sleep anxiety. It has transformed our lives and night-time routine for the better. Thank you, Zarbee's!
Read More
9
Effective dosage
Amazing product! We use this for our son who has anxiety. It used to take him hours to fall asleep as his mind raced. With our paediatrician’s approval, he takes it every night, and we’ve found that 1/4 tablet works best.
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, many parents report seeing results from this supplement for anxiety relatively quickly, often within 30 minutes to 1 hour of administration. For instance, one reviewer mentioned that it takes effect after about half an hour, providing a relaxed period for their child Read Review. Another user noted that their child, who previously struggled to fall asleep due to anxiety, now settles down in less than an hour—highlighting the product's effectiveness in calming anxious minds during bedtime Read Review.
In some cases, parents observed that consistent use over several weeks appeared to enhance the supplement's effectiveness. A reviewer indicated that they have been using the product for about two weeks with noticeable improvements in their child's sleep quality, although they emphasize taking breaks to allow natural melatonin levels to adjust Read Review. Overall, while individual responses may vary, many families share positive experiences regarding faster sleep onset linked to their children's anxiety when using this supplement.
Melatonin has been gaining attention as a potential supplement for alleviating anxiety, with several studies suggesting its efficacy in different contexts. For instance, research has shown that melatonin reduced anxiety and cognitive issues linked to glyphosate exposure in rats, indicating its therapeutic potential in mitigating anxiety-related behaviors caused by environmental stressors [5]. Another study highlighted that administering melatonin before elective surgeries resulted in significantly lower anxiety levels among patients, along with improved sleep quality and cognitive function post-surgery [6].
In pediatric settings, melatonin demonstrated a notable impact on anxiety during stressful medical procedures like venipuncture, where it significantly decreased reported anxiety levels in children compared to a placebo [7]. However, the effectiveness of melatonin as a premedication alternative to traditional agents for anxious children about to undergo surgery yielded mixed results, suggesting that while it holds promise, further standardization in administration and evaluation is required for clearer conclusions [4]. These findings collectively contribute to the notion that while melatonin may aid in reducing anxiety, especially in certain populations, more focused research is still needed to fully establish its broad applicability.
Based on user reviews, many families have reported significant improvements in their children's sleep and anxiety symptoms after using the supplement. For instance, one parent shared that their 7-year-old, who previously suffered from nighttime anxiety and could only manage 5-6 hours of sleep, now enjoys more restful nights, falling asleep before anxious thoughts can return Read Review. Another reviewer expressed satisfaction in how their child's restlessness and anxiety during the night have disappeared, resulting in fewer nightly awakenings Read Review.
Moreover, several parents reported that their children are able to settle down quickly. One mother noted her child used to take hours to wind down due to racing thoughts, but after starting the supplements, he now falls asleep conveniently and stays asleep most nights Read Review. Consistent use was also emphasized, as some families found prolonged use over weeks seemed to enhance effectiveness, leading to better sleep quality overall Read Review. While individual results can vary, the general trend suggests that many users have experienced noticeable relief in symptoms and improved sleep for their children.
Users report varying experiences when combining this supplement with other products aimed at managing anxiety. For some families, the use of this supplement seems to complement existing anxiety treatments effectively. One parent mentioned that with their pediatrician's approval, they found the supplement to work best when taken in smaller doses, suggesting a tailored approach may enhance efficacy Read Review. However, other reviews indicate the importance of moderation, as one user highlighted the necessity of taking breaks after two weeks of continuous use to maintain the body’s own melatonin levels, pointing to a cautious strategy when integrating multiple supplements Read Review.
Moreover, several parents have expressed satisfaction in how this supplement has helped alleviate anxiety during nighttime, facilitating a smoother combination with other relaxation techniques or routines. For instance, one reviewer shared that after establishing a calming bedtime environment along with the supplement, their child now achieves more restful sleep, suggesting a holistic approach may yield the best results Read Review. Overall, while many families laud the benefits of combining this supplement with other methods, including prescribed medications, careful monitoring and professional guidance are recommended to optimize outcomes.
The optimal dose for melatonin in treating anxiety varies depending on the specific context and population, but several studies provide key insights. For example, research shows that administering 3 mg of melatonin the night prior to surgery significantly reduced anxiety levels in patients aged 40 to 80 compared to those receiving standard premedication ([6]). Additionally, a dosage of 0.5 mg/kg was found effective in reducing anxiety and pain for children undergoing venipuncture, with significant improvements noted when given 30 minutes before the procedure ([7]).
While these studies highlight different dosages for varying settings, it's clear that melatonin can play a beneficial role in alleviating anxiety when used appropriately. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best dosage and method tailored to individual needs.
7.5
Relaxed time
Pills for anxiety and sleep! They take effect after half an hour, providing the child with relaxed time.
7.5
Helps with sleep
2 people found this helpful
Excellent! It’s my first time purchasing this children’s supplement, and I had some expectations and anxiety. I’m using it without any issues so far. It’s effective for my 4-year-old daughter, as she goes to bed by herself in less than an hour. Usually, she struggles to leave the TV behind. It takes about an hour and a half for my other daughter to see results, which I believe is down to compatibility. When used at bedtime, it helps immensely. I bought it as a trial and I'm pleased with the product!
4
Immediate calming effect
2 people found this helpful
The effect is visible immediately, yet the guidance states not to take it for over two weeks consecutively. We've been using the medication when needed for my child for about two weeks for anxiety during tougher times. After reading stories and creating a calm environment, it works effectively, but we must take breaks to allow the body to adjust its own melatonin levels. Regrettably, anxiety has returned but sleep quality is better at night.
9
Promotes better sleep
2 people found this helpful
Works great! My 7-year-old has nighttime anxiety and often can't settle before bed. On nights when his mind races with worries, these supplements help him relax so that he falls asleep before the anxieties can return. Previously, he managed only 5-6 hours of sleep from constant waking, but now that's changed. I give it to him consistently for better results, and it seems to help regulate his sleep patterns.
9
Restlessness reduced
Great! An excellent way to help your child fall asleep quickly and enjoy sound sleep. The restlessness and anxiety during night sleep have disappeared, and I no longer wake up frequently throughout the night.
9
Game changer
Such a relief! After years of struggling with sleep due to anxiety, our six-year-old can now fall asleep and stay asleep most nights. Many stressors have eased simply from getting a good night’s rest. These Zarbee's products have been a game changer for our boy, his twin, and our entire family.
9
Effective dosage
Amazing product! We use this for our son who has anxiety. It used to take him hours to fall asleep as his mind raced. With our paediatrician’s approval, he takes it every night, and we’ve found that 1/4 tablet works best.
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 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