Clinically reviewed by: Dr Angus McLellan Published: 27 January, 2026
Tags: Autism, ADHD
About this guide
Melatonin is sometimes prescribed to help children and young people with sleep difficulties.
This guide brings together current NHS advice and clear answers to the most common questions, so that you can feel confident and well informed about your child’s treatment.
We will continue to monitor national updates and we will adjust our guidance as and when there are any changes.
What is melatonin?
Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate the sleep wake cycle. The prescribed version is used to support children and young people who struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep.
Is melatonin safe?
Current NHS guidance considers melatonin safe when it is used for the right reasons and as prescribed.
There is no specific guidance from NHS England or the Department of Health about recent reports relating to melatonin and heart health.
Our clinical team has reviewed the available evidence and continues to monitor national guidance closely. If anything changes, we will contact families and update this guide.
What side effects should I look out for?
Most children do not experience significant side effects, and many tolerate melatonin well.
However, we want you to feel confident in recognising the rare side effects that need urgent attention.
Side effects that need immediate help
Based on NHS-recommended guidance:
Chest pain
A fast or fluttering heartbeat
Any sudden or unusual symptoms that make you worry your child is very unwell
If any of these occur, call 999 or take your child to hospital.
Side effects that are usually mild
Feeling dizzy or nervous
Stomach pain
Rash or itching
Increased risk of infection and pain
If you notice anything unusual or you are concerned, contact your GP, your pharmacist or our clinical team.
Can my child stop taking melatonin?
Yes. Melatonin is not addictive, and your child can stop taking it at any time. You may notice changes in your child's sleep routine when stopping melatonin but your child should not experience withdrawal symptoms.
What if I am unsure whether to continue?
You have options.
If you want to pause melatonin
You can stop the medication and monitor your child’s sleep. If you choose this, please let us know so we can update your child’s clinical record.
If you want to continue but feel unsure
You can book a review appointment with one of our clinicians. They can:
Reassess whether melatonin is still appropriate
Talk through any risks or concerns
Suggest alternatives, including behavioural sleep strategies
Review your child’s care plan
If you want to carry on with the current plan
This is absolutely fine. Melatonin remains widely used in the NHS for children who need support with sleep.
Where can I get more support or ask questions?
If you are worried, unsure, or simply want to talk things through, please get in touch.
Book a review appointment with your clinician
Contact our Patient Support Team
Speak to your GP or pharmacist
We are here to support you and your child, and we will guide you through any changes in national advice.
How can I make an informed decision?
It can help to consider the following questions.
Has melatonin helped my child fall asleep or stay asleep?
Are there any side effects I have noticed?
Are there any changes at school, home or in routines that might be affecting sleep?
Would I feel more comfortable discussing this with a clinician?
You are not expected to make this decision alone. We are here to support you.
Where can I get more support or ask questions?
If you are worried, unsure, or simply want to talk things through, please get in touch.
Please note: Melatonin is currently only available through our private medication service.
If this is something you would like to explore for your child, your GP can talk you through the options available through the NHS and advise on what might be appropriate.
FAQs
About Dr Angus McLellan
Dr Angus McLellan is a highly experienced Consultant Psychiatrist who supports adults with a wide range of mental health concerns, including low mood, anxiety, stress, and more complex or long-standing difficulties.