Does Melatonin Help Children with Postconcussive Symptoms?

In this randomized controlled study, melatonin did not have any statistically or clinically significant effect.

Melatonin is known to have neuroprotective properties and can aid with sleep; however, its use in treating postconcussive symptoms in children is not known. In a randomized, controlled, double-blinded trial, researchers compared 3-mg and 10-mg doses of melatonin with placebo taken daily before bedtime for 28 days in the treatment of persistent postconcussive symptoms. Ninety-nine children aged 8 to 18 years who presented to an emergency department (ED) in Canada and received a diagnosis of concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) were enrolled; 92 completed the study. The primary outcome was change in Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory–Youth (PSCI-Y). Secondary outcomes were behavioral, cognitive, and sleep problems and functional im…

Reviewing Author

Carolyn K. Holland, MD, MEd, FACEP, FAAP

Disclosures

EquityGeneral Electric

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine (Program Committee Chief Resident Forum Subcommittee Chair); American College of Emergency Physicians (Education Committee member)

Carolyn K. Holland, MD, MEd, FACEP, FAAP

Disclosures

EquityGeneral Electric

Does Melatonin Help Children with Postconcussive Symptoms?

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Reviewing Author