Over-the-counter (OTC) sleep aids, including melatonin supplements and antihistamines, are commonly used by adults and sometimes given to children to help with sleep difficulties. However, their potential impact on child development raises important concerns that deserve careful consideration.
Children’s brains and bodies are still developing, and sleep plays a crucial role in this process. Sleep supports cognitive development, emotional regulation, physical growth, and immune function. Disruptions to natural sleep patterns or the introduction of substances that alter sleep architecture can potentially interfere with these developmental processes.
Melatonin, a hormone naturally produced by the body to regulate the sleep-wake cycle, is one of the most popular OTC sleep aids given to children. While melatonin can be effective in helping children fall asleep, especially in cases of circadian rhythm disorders or neurodevelopmental conditions, it is not without risks. Melatonin is a hormone, and administering it externally can affect the body’s own hormone regulation. This is particularly concerning in children because their endocrine systems are still maturing. Overuse or inappropriate dosing of melatonin can lead to hormonal imbalances, potentially impacting puberty timing and other hormone-dependent developmental milestones.
Moreover, the quality and dosage of OTC melatonin products can vary widely. Some melatonin gummies or supplements have been found to contain inconsistent amounts of melatonin, sometimes up to ten times the labeled dose. This inconsistency increases the risk of accidental overdose, especially since children may perceive these gummies as candy and consume more than intended. Overdosing on melatonin can cause excessive drowsiness, headaches, dizziness, and in rare cases, more serious health issues.
There are also behavioral concerns. Melatonin and other sleep aids can alter sleep architecture, meaning the natural stages of sleep may be disrupted. Since deep sleep and REM sleep are critical for memory consolidation and brain development, altering these stages could theoretically affect learning and emotional health. Long-term effects of regular melatonin use in children have not been thoroughly studied, so the full impact on brain development remains uncertain.
Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, are another category of OTC sleep aids sometimes used for children. These drugs cause sedation by blocking histamine receptors in the brain. While they can induce sleepiness, they are not designed for long-term use as sleep aids and can cause side effects like daytime drowsiness, dry mouth, urinary retention, and constipation. In children, these side effects can interfere with dail
